Southern African Development Community (SADC) officials gathered in Zambia on Thursday to address pressing regional security and political challenges. The two-day summit of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation focused on Mozambique, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and other member states.
The meeting reviewed recent elections in South Africa, Zimbabwe, Eswatini, and Madagascar, expressing satisfaction with the peaceful outcomes. Officials also discussed upcoming elections in Mozambique, Malawi, Botswana, and Namibia.
Zambia’s Foreign Minister Mulambo Haimbe praised the progress made in stabilizing Eastern DRC, Lesotho, and Mozambique. He acknowledged the ongoing peacebuilding efforts and commended the SADC missions in these countries for their contributions.
Haimbe highlighted the significant strides made by the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) in restoring peace and security in the Cabo Delgado province. He announced that the complete withdrawal of SAMIM is expected to be finalized within the next week.
Elias Magosi, executive secretary of the SADC, emphasized the need for continued political and diplomatic efforts to resolve the conflict in Eastern DRC. He also called for increased collaboration to combat transnational organized crimes,such as drug and human trafficking.