The 45th SADC Summit Marks a Defining Moment for Southern Africa

The 45th Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) took place at the IVATO Conference Centre in Antananarivo, Republic of Madagascar. Held under the theme “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC,” the gathering brought together leaders to deliberate on the region’s future.

President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar was elected as the new Chairperson of SADC, succeeding President Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe. In his acceptance speech, President Rajoelina emphasized unity, shared responsibility, and the urgent need to accelerate sustainable development. He stressed that regional integration must remain the cornerstone of SADC’s agenda, with a strong focus on economic resilience and stability to uplift the lives of Southern Africa’s citizens.

A historic highlight of the summit was the participation of four newly elected leaders addressing SADC for the first time. These were President Advocate Duma Boko of Botswana, President Daniel Chapo of Mozambique, President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah of Namibia, and Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam of Mauritius. Their maiden speeches underscored the importance of regional solidarity. They reaffirmed their commitment to peace, security, industrialisation, and trade as the backbone of inclusive growth. Their presence reflected a new chapter for SADC leadership, balancing continuity with fresh perspectives.

The summit also recognised significant political progress within member states. Lesotho was honoured for adopting Article 10 of its Constitutional Amendment. This move represents a major step in strengthening democracy and preserving the will of the Basotho people. As Prime Minister Sam Ntsokoane Matekane noted, this milestone has led to Lesotho’s removal from the Organ Troika programme, marking the country’s progress toward peace, stability, and unity.

The 45th SADC Summit reaffirmed the organisation’s role in shaping Southern Africa’s future. With renewed leadership and a focus on industrialisation, agricultural transformation, and energy transition, the region is positioned to advance resilience and inclusive development. The decisions made in Madagascar have set the stage for stronger cooperation and deeper integration among member states, laying the foundation for long-term growth across Southern Africa.