Mahmoud Thabit Kombo Pledges SADC Cooperation

The Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo,has committed to collaborating with the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers to enhance the regional economy.

This commitment was made during his participation in the SADC Ministerial Meeting in Zimbabwe from August 13 to 16, 2024, marking his first engagement since being appointed by President Samia Suluhu Hassan as Tanzania’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation.

“I pledge to work together with you to implement regional strategies outlined in the SADC Establishment Agreement and the Regional Development Strategy Plan (RISDP) for the period 2020-2030,” stated Minister Kombo.

Furthermore, Minister Kombo highlighted Tanzania’s ongoing full engagement in SADC activities, including meeting its financial obligations to advance the region’s objectives.

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At the meeting, the chairmanship of the SADC Council was transferred from the current chair, Hon. Ambassador Tete António, Minister of Foreign Affairs of Angola, to Hon. Ambassador Dr. Fredrick Shava, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe.

During the handover, Hon. Tete António congratulated Hon. Shava on assuming the role and stressed the importance of lifting economic restrictions on Zimbabwe, enhancing women’s involvement in various spheres, and engaging youth in development initiatives.

In response, Hon. Shava expressed gratitude for the responsibility entrusted to him and affirmed Zimbabwe’s readiness to collaborate with member states in achieving the community’s objectives. He underscored the significance of private sector involvement in economic promotion and encouraged contributions to support the community’s effective operations.