SADC Concludes Successful Joint Ministerial Meeting on Energy and Water in Harare

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has successfully concluded the Joint Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Energy and Water, which took place from June 30 to July 04, 2025, in Harare, Republic of Zimbabwe. The high-level gathering brought together key decision-makers from across the region to review progress, discuss challenges, and adopt strategies to enhance regional cooperation in energy and water sectors.

The Ministerial Meeting was preceded by a High-Level Dialogue on July 03, focusing on strategic projects, including the Grand Inga Hydropower Project, the Congo River Water Transfer Concept, and the SMART Clean Cooking Initiatives. These projects are expected to play a vital role in meeting the region’s growing energy and water demands while promoting sustainable development.

A major highlight of the week-long event was the celebration of the 30th Anniversary of the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP). Established in 1995 by the SADC Summit, SAPP is the oldest and most successful regional energy organisation within the SADC framework, known for its impressive power trading volumes and role in promoting energy security and integration among member states. The anniversary celebrations were officiated by the Committees of Ministers responsible for Energy and Water and hosted by the Government of Zimbabwe.

The meeting was officially opened by Hon. July Moyo, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Energy and Power Development and Co-Chairperson of the Joint Committee. Also in attendance were Ms. Lerato Mataboge, African Union Commissioner for Infrastructure and Energy, and Ms. Angele Makombo N’Tumba, SADC Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration.

In his opening remarks, Mr. Elias M. Magosi, SADC Executive Secretary, acknowledged the region’s accomplishments over the past decades. He also highlighted persistent challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, climate change impacts, and limited investment in cross-border projects. “We have made significant strides, but there is still more to be done to ensure energy and water security for all SADC citizens,” he said.

Ministers and senior officials used the platform to share experiences, review policy implementation, and coordinate efforts to accelerate regional integration. The discussions reinforced the importance of collaboration in tackling regional challenges such as energy access, water scarcity, and sustainable development.

The resolutions adopted during the meeting are expected to shape the region’s future plans, with a strong emphasis on renewable energy expansion, regional power connectivity, and the promotion of clean energy technologies. The outcomes also aim to support SADC’s broader vision of regional integration, economic development, and resilience against climate-related disruptions.

As the region commemorates three decades of energy cooperation through SAPP, the meeting underscored SADC’s continued commitment to strengthening its institutions and delivering impactful results for its member states.