Lesotho Participates in SADC Council of Ministers Meeting in Madagascar

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, Honourable Lejone Mpotjoana, led Lesotho’s delegation to the SADC Council of Ministers meeting held in Antananarivo, Republic of Madagascar. The Council convened from 12 to 14 August 2025 to assess regional progress and prepare for the upcoming SADC Heads of State and Government Summit.

A key focus of the meeting was the review of the implementation of the SADC Revised Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030. The plan guides the region’s development priorities, with emphasis on economic growth, infrastructure development, and social progress. Ministers also discussed peace and security matters, as well as strategies for fostering inclusive economic development across member states.

On 14 August 2025, the Council adopted its report, which will inform decisions at the high-level 45th SADC Summit scheduled for 17 August 2025. This year’s Summit theme is “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC.” The theme reflects the region’s commitment to driving industrial growth, modernising agriculture, and embracing sustainable energy solutions to strengthen resilience against global challenges.

Lesotho’s delegation included senior government officials from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Relations, the Ministry of Finance and Development Planning, and the Ministry of Trade and Industry. Their participation underscored Lesotho’s active role in shaping regional policies and contributing to the collective vision of economic integration, peace, and sustainable development in Southern Africa.

The outcomes of the Council of Ministers meeting are expected to set the tone for strategic decisions at the upcoming Summit, reinforcing SADC’s goal of a more united and prosperous region.