SADC Chairperson, President Tshisekedi, Calls For Enhanced Regional Integration During Visit To SADC Secretariat
The Chairperson of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), H.E. Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi Tshilombo, President of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), has emphasized the importance of deepening regional integration and achieving sustainable development. During his official visit to the SADC Secretariat, President Tshisekedi commended the Secretariat’s efforts in facilitating the SADC regional integration agenda and provided guidance on the implementation of SADC programs.
Regional Integration and Achieving Sustainable Development:
President Tshisekedi highlighted the significant progress made by SADC since its formation and emphasized its continued relevance as a driving force for regional integration, economic growth, and social-political development. He acknowledged the signing of over 33 protocols, which provide a comprehensive framework for cooperation in various sectors including agriculture, food security, natural resources, infrastructure, trade, investment, finance, social development, and peace and security.
Unleashing the SADC Region’s Potential:
President Tshisekedi recognized the enormous potential of the SADC region for trade, investment, and economic growth. With 16 member states, a combined GDP of about US$720 billion, and a population exceeding 360 million people, the region offers a vast market for investment and economic development. He emphasized the strong legal and policy frameworks in place, including the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030, SADC Industrialization Strategy and Roadmap (2015-2063), and the SADC Regional Infrastructure Development Master Plan (RIDMP), which create a conducive environment for trade and investment opportunities.
Peace and Security:
President Tshisekedi called for unity in the face of threats to peace and security, recognizing the role played by the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation. He commended the dedication and leadership of H.E. Dr. Hage G. Geingob, President of Namibia, and Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation, for convening the recent SADC Organ Troika Summit, which focused on addressing the security situation in the eastern DRC. Maintaining regional peace and stability remains crucial for the integration, development, and prosperity of the region.
Acknowledging SADC Secretariat’s Efforts:
President Tshisekedi expressed gratitude to the Secretariat staff for their commitment in addressing the contemporary challenges faced by the SADC region. He stressed the importance of a strong SADC Secretariat that can deliver on the collective aspirations of the region, as outlined in the SADC Vision 2050. The President recognized the wisdom of the Secretariat in dealing with matters of economic integration, politics, peace, and security.
Promoting Industrialization and Inclusive Economic Growth in SADC:
The Executive Secretary of SADC, H.E. Mr. Elias M. Magosi, welcomed President Tshisekedi’s visit to the Secretariat and highlighted the region’s continued focus on promoting industrialization and inclusive economic growth. He mentioned that the Secretariat supports member states in developing and promoting identified value chains, such as agro-processing, mineral beneficiation, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, and capital goods and services. These efforts aim to strengthen regional and global value chains, aligning with the current SADC Summit Theme of “Promoting industrialization through agro-processing, mineral beneficiation, and regional value chains for inclusive and resilient economic growth”.