Lesotho Hands Over Regional Coordination Role to Malawi Within OACPS

Brussels – The Kingdom of Lesotho has officially concluded its tenure as regional coordinator of the Southern Africa Region within the Organisation of African, Caribbean and Pacific States (OACPS), handing over the baton to the Republic of Malawi. The symbolic transfer of responsibility was marked during a significant meeting of Southern African Heads of Missions, held at the Embassy of Lesotho in Brussels.

In its farewell statement, Lesotho reflected on a term defined by progress, partnership, and persistence. Among its most notable achievements was the strengthening of regional consultation mechanisms and active involvement in OACPS decision-making forums. The Kingdom also played a crucial role in shaping Southern Africa’s collective stance under the newly adopted Samoa Agreement—an updated framework for cooperation among OACPS member states and the European Union.

Lesotho acknowledged that its coordination role came with challenges. Chief among them was the ongoing need for deeper regional cohesion, improved financial accountability across OACPS bodies, and the push for more transparent and inclusive reforms within the organisation. Despite these hurdles, the Kingdom underscored the importance of unity and constructive dialogue in addressing shared goals and challenges.

Expressing heartfelt appreciation, Lesotho extended its gratitude to fellow Southern African Missions for their unwavering cooperation and solidarity throughout the coordination period. The Kingdom voiced full confidence in Malawi’s ability to lead the region with integrity and vision, and offered its full support as the new coordinator begins its term.

“Lesotho remains fully committed to the ideals of regional collaboration and the broader vision of a cohesive and influential OACPS,” the statement concluded. The Kingdom also reaffirmed its dedication to the principles of South-South cooperation and inclusive development, which remain central to the OACPS mission.

As Malawi assumes its new leadership role, the Southern Africa Region stands poised to continue advancing a unified voice on the international stage, while deepening regional ties and promoting sustainable development across member states.