17 Aug 2026

Southern Africa Development Committee (SADC) executive secretary, Elias Magosi has reiterated that collective efforts to safeguard peace, strengthen democratic governance, and advance sustainable development are central to the aspirations of the people of Southern Africa.

Magosi said this at the Ordinary SADC Organ Troika Summit, convened on the eve of the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, which is scheduled for Monday in Durban, South Africa.

He said the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation was the cornerstone of the region's security architecture.

"Through its work, we continue to strengthen peace, security, and stability across our region, which are the essential foundations upon which development, economic growth, and shared prosperity are built. Lasting peace creates the conditions for investment, social progress, and prosperity. Equally, sustainable development reinforces peace by improving livelihoods, expanding opportunities, and strengthening the resilience of our societies," Magosi said.

The Summit considered the report of the Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation for the past year, which will be subsequently submitted to the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government.

The report reflects progress in advancing regional peace, security, and democratic governance, while also identifying challenges that require our continued attention and collective action.

Magosi noted that the SADC region remains generally stable and free from inter-state conflict.

"Guided by the SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, we have continued to strengthen institutions and mechanisms that promote peace, democracy, and regional integration. During the past year, SADC remained actively engaged in responding to political and security developments across the region. Through preventive diplomacy, dialogue, mediation, and conflict prevention initiatives, we have continued to pursue peaceful solutions and strengthen stability.

"Particular attention has been directed towards developments in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and the Republic of Madagascar. These efforts reflect our unwavering commitment to peaceful conflict resolution and to supporting Member States facing complex political and security challenges," he said.

Magosi also reaffirmed SADC's support for all efforts aimed at securing a peaceful, durable, and political solution that restores stability, protects human life, and creates the conditions for sustainable peace and development in the DRC. New Ziana