The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has taken positions on several issues challenging the region, including South Africa's migration situation and the long-running dispute over sanctions on Zimbabwe. The positions were adopted as South African President Cyril Ramaphosa took over as chairperson of the 16-member regional bloc, succeeding Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, during the 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government in Durban, South Africa.
Leadership Transition
The leadership change grants Pretoria a central role in driving SADC's regional agenda over the coming year. The bloc's focus on migration comes as South Africa intensifies efforts to tackle undocumented immigration, with tensions over foreign nationals, deportations, and xenophobic attacks affecting relations between Pretoria and other countries in the region. SADC received an update from South Africa on migration governance and called for a coordinated and multidimensional regional dialogue to address the underlying drivers of migration and to develop comprehensive, sustainable, and effective responses.
Zimbabwe Sanctions
On Zimbabwe, SADC again challenged the continued use of sanctions and their impact on the country's economy. The bloc has consistently argued that the measures, originally imposed by Western governments over concerns including human rights, democratic governance, and political repression, have broader consequences for Zimbabwe's economic development and its ability to attract investment. SADC reiterated its long-standing call for the removal of the sanctions, saying they continue to limit Zimbabwe from attaining its full economic potential.
Regional Security and Stability
The summit reaffirmed SADC's commitment to supporting peace and stability in the Democratic Republic of Congo, and welcomed efforts aimed at resolving political tensions in Madagascar through dialogue. The bloc also commended Mozambique for its efforts to combat terrorism in Cabo Delgado.
Economic Integration and Critical Minerals
In the economic sphere, SADC called for stronger regional trade, the removal of non-tariff barriers, and improved cross-border infrastructure. The summit placed critical minerals and industrialisation at the centre of its economic agenda, signalling an intent to leverage the region's mineral resources for industrial development.
Public Health and Tourism
SADC urged member states to strengthen disease surveillance and preparedness while supporting efforts to contain health emergencies in the region. The summit also approved an agreement establishing the SADC Tourism UNIVISA, a step aimed at facilitating cross-border travel and boosting regional tourism.