MWE Correspondent
Madagascar has formally assumed the chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers, as member states were urged to strengthen regional cooperation and push for deeper economic integration.
The announcement came during a ceremony attended by top diplomats and officials from across the region, ahead of the 45th SADC Heads of State Summit scheduled for August 17, 2025.
Speaking at the handover, Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Amon Murwira, highlighted that achieving economic liberation within the SADC region is a long-term process that requires “firm cooperation and unwavering commitment to integration.” He stressed that collaborative efforts among member states remain crucial to advancing industrialization, trade, and sustainable development across Southern Africa.
Madagascar’s Foreign Minister, Rasata Rafaravavitafika, who now chairs the Council of Ministers, pledged to amplify the voices of island member states while reinforcing continental partnerships. She noted that balancing the region’s economic, environmental, and social priorities will be central to creating a more competitive and resilient SADC.
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Representing Tanzania, the Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, participated in the deliberations. Among the key agenda items were preparations for the upcoming SADC Summit and discussions on advancing the region’s Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) for 2020–2030. The plan focuses on boosting industrialization, trade, infrastructure development, energy transition, and food security, while also reinforcing peace and security across the member states.
SADC, composed of 16 member countries, has long prioritized regional economic integration as a pathway to shared prosperity. Its programs aim to harmonize trade policies, enhance transport and energy networks, and strengthen socio-economic cooperation. However, progress has often been slowed by delays in ratifying agreements and implementing policies, making strong leadership at the Council of Ministers especially critical.
Observers say Madagascar’s leadership could signal renewed energy for the SADC agenda, particularly in fostering intra-regional trade, improving infrastructure connectivity, and promoting sustainable development across both mainland and island members. The coming 45th Heads of State Summit is expected to build on these initiatives and chart a strategic course for the region over the next year.
