SADC Ministerial Committee Reaffirms commitment to advancing Regional Peace, Security

By Kelly Njombo

THE Southern African Development Community (SADC) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing regional peace, security, and development, as it is key in enhancing regional trade and economic stability.
SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) chairperson Honourable Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo underscored SADC’s collective responsibility to promote and safeguard regional peace and security, and to build resilient conflict management institutions and structures for sustainable peace and stability.
Speaking during the SADC 27th Meeting of the MCO on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania on Friday, Ambassador Kombo commended SADC’s ongoing efforts to advance regional peace and security, and acknowledged the important contributions of the Panel of Elders and Mediation Reference Group in conflict resolution.
Ambassador Kombo who is also Tanzanian Minister of Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, chaired the meeting that attracted amongst others, Ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs, Public Security and State Security in all SADC Member States, including Zambia.
Zambia was represented by Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security Jack Mwimbu, Minister of Defence Ambrose Lufuma and Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Mulambo Haimbe.
“I would like to commend the establishment of the Network of Women Mediators early this year as it is a significant stride toward inclusive mediation, ensuring that the needs of women and children are integrated into peace processes. And on the security situation in the Eastern part of the Democratic Republic of Congo, I reiterate the commitment of the SADC Heads of State and Government to pursue dialogue and negotiation through the joint East African Community (EAC) and SADC,” Ambassador Kombo said in his opening remarks.

And SADC Executive Secretary His Excellency Elias Magosi called for strengthened unity and regional solidarity in response to global economic shifts, including rising tariff barriers and declining foreign aid.
“If ever there was a time for solidarity, this is the time. The current geopolitical developments must serve as a serious wake-up call for us, as a region, to continue to stand shoulder to shoulder in the face of such developments. United, we are stronger. And together, there is no challenge beyond our collective capacity,” said Mr. Magosi.
Following the conclusion of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC), Mr. Magosi extended his appreciation to the Troop Contributing Countries and the host nation for their cooperation in ensuring the mission’s success.
Mr. Magosi also recognised the Member States that provided sustained financial support to the operation.
Regarding the fight against transnational crimes such as poaching, drug trafficking, human trafficking, cybercrime, arms proliferation, and motor vehicle theft, the Executive Secretary reaffirmed the region’s commitment to accelerate the implementation of harmonised responses, particularly through the SADC Integrated Strategy to Prevent and Combat Transnational Organised Crime.
During the meeting, the MCO observed a Moment of Silence and paid tribute in honour of distinguished persons of the SADC region who recently passed away.
These include His Excellency Dr. Edgar Chagwa Lungu, Sixth President of the Republic of Zambia who passed away on June 5th, 2025, His Excellency David Mabuza, former Deputy President of South Africa who passed away on July 3rd 2025, His Excellency Dr Sam Nujoma, Founding President of the Republic of Namibia who passed away on February 8, His Royal Highness Prince Mabandla Dlamini, Former Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini, who passed away on June 29, 2025 and Senator Constance Simelane and the Former Deputy Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Eswatini who passed away on July 14, 2024.
The MCO also expressed its condolences following the passing of two Secretariat staff Nthabiseng Liphapang, Head of the Legal Affairs Unit from the Kingdom of Lesotho and Antoinette Manana, Programme Officer for Gender Mainstreaming from the Kingdom of Eswatini.

The MCO endorsed and recommended for approval by the SADC Council of Ministers, the draft Framework on Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development and Transitional Justice which will help reduce repeat offences and strengthen community safety across the region.
On this note, the MCO called for robust investment in rehabilitation and reintegration programmes.
The MCO commended all troops that participated in the SAMIDRC and all Member States for supporting the regional initiative towards attainment of peace and stability in the Eastern DRC and called on the Member States to remain actively seized with the security situation in that part of the country through continued support to the ongoing political and diplomatic initiatives.
In addressing the proliferation of Small Arms and Light Weapons, the MCO urged Member States to enhance the implementation of African Union Master Roadmap of Practical Steps to Silencing the Guns in Africa.

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