SADC Executive Secretary Elias M. Magosi Calls for Bold Environmental and Tourism Reforms
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Executive Secretary, H.E. Mr. Elias M. Magosi, delivered a powerful address to ministers of tourism and environment, urging member states to take bold, coordinated action to protect the region’s natural resources and boost sustainable tourism. Among those in attendance were Lesotho’s Minister of Tourism, Environment and Culture, Hon. Motlatsi Maqelepo, and Minister of Forestry, Range and Soil Conservation, Hon. Letsema Adontši, who echoed the importance of the agenda.
The address outlined five key priority areas critical to the region’s development:
1. Environmental Protection is Vital
Mr. Magosi stressed that protecting the environment and natural heritage is fundamental to SADC’s long-term development strategy. He underscored the need to balance growth with environmental sustainability, highlighting that well-preserved ecosystems are key to economic resilience and food security across the region.
2. Urgent Action on Climate Change
Calling climate change one of the region’s greatest threats, Mr. Magosi warned of its impact on agriculture, public health, and ecosystems. He urged member states to adopt and scale up climate-smart solutions, reinforcing the need for immediate action to reduce environmental degradation and build climate-resilient communities.
3. Strengthening Regional Agreements
The Executive Secretary pushed for the swift ratification and implementation of regional environmental protocols and legal frameworks. He emphasized that harmonized policies are essential for attracting international funding and fostering cross-border cooperation on pressing environmental challenges.
4. Combating Illegal Resource Exploitation
Mr. Magosi drew attention to the illegal harvesting and exploitation of natural resources, particularly poaching and unsanctioned logging. He encouraged member states to fully implement strategies such as the SADC Law Enforcement and Anti-Poaching (LEAP) Strategy, which plays a key role in conserving the region’s rich biodiversity and protecting endangered species.
5. Promoting Sustainable Tourism
Recognizing the devastating impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on tourism, Mr. Magosi urged countries to revive the sector by promoting sustainable, community-based tourism models. He advocated for the creation of regional tourism working groups and digital platforms to share best practices and stimulate investment in ecotourism and cultural heritage projects.
Lesotho’s ministers welcomed the Executive Secretary’s message, reaffirming their commitment to regional collaboration on environmental protection and tourism growth. The discussions are expected to shape future policies that align with both SADC’s Vision 2050 and the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030.
This landmark meeting positions SADC as a proactive regional bloc tackling climate and development challenges head-on, with Lesotho and fellow member states leading the charge toward a greener, more inclusive future.
