BY DIRAMAKINI
THE 27th Meeting of the Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) began today 24th,2025 at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam,Tanzania.
Honourable Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation of the United Republic of Tanzania and Chairperson of the MCO, welcomed delegates and emphasized the importance of regional cooperation in promoting peace and security.
"This Ministerial Committee marks the culmination of efforts by key Committees that support the Organ structure namely the Inter-State Politics and Diplomacy Committee, the Inter-State Defence and Security Committee, Public Security Sub-Committee, State Security Sub Committee and so forth.
"As we reflect on the progress of the implementation of decisions of the 27th Ministerial Council, it is gratifying to note that 70% of the MCO decisions were implemented by the Secretariat and Member States.
"This without doubt contributes to strengthening the overall efforts in consolidating our goal to achieve peace and stability in the region.
"The period under review has been a significant test of our regions commitment to democratic governance with four Member States namely the Republic of Mozambique, the Republic of Botswana, the Republic of Mauritius, and the Republic of Namibia successfully holding General Elections.
"It is encouraging to note that the region rose to the occasion, with these elections facilitating democratic transitions and peaceful transfers of power.
"The SADC Electoral Observation Missions (SEOM) were successfully deployed to all four countries and observed that the electoral processes were largely conducted in calm and orderly environment.
"In light of the above, I would like to take this opportunity to inform this meeting that the United Republic of Tanzania is scheduled to hold its general elections in October 2025.
"On that note, we warmly welcome the deployment of the SADC Electoral Observation Mission (SEOM) to observe the process and I guarantee that it will run smoothly in accordance with the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections.
"Furthermore, I am aware that the Republics of Malawi and Seychelles are also scheduled to conduct their General Elections in September 2025.
The meeting brings together ministers, senior officials, and heads of defence and security organs from SADC member states to discuss progress in implementing key peace and security initiatives, including the withdrawal of the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of the Congo (SAMIDRC) and efforts to address transnational crimes.
The SADC Executive Secretary, H.E. Mr. Elias Mpedi Magosi, also delivered remarks, highlighting the region's commitment to peace, stability, and sound governance.
"At the heart of SADC’s vision for regional integration and development lies our enduring commitment to peace, stability, and sound governance.
"In line with this vision, this meeting will assess progress in implementing key peace and security initiatives across the region, reaffirming our collective resolve to strengthen regional security, consolidate democratic institutions, and enhance the resilience of our community.
"In response to the crisis in Eastern DRC, SADC deployed the SAMIDRC in December 2023, supporting the Government of the DRC’s efforts to restore peace and security.
"To reinforce this mission, SADC partnered with the East African Community (EAC) during a Joint Summit held on 8 February 2025 in this very city, reaffirming regional solidarity and coordinated action.
"Subsequent summits in February and March 2025 endorsed the consolidation of the Luanda and Nairobi Processes, and the appointment of a Panel of Facilitators to lead the integrated peace initiative.
"Following developments on the ground, the Extraordinary Summit on 13 March 2025 approved the phased withdrawal of SAMIDRC, which commenced on 29 April 2025 and is drawing to a close.
"We thank the troop contributing countries and the host country for working seamlessly to ensure the mission achieved it objectives, and extend gratitude to all those Member States who ensured a sustained financial support to the mission.
"Despite the conclusion of this deployment, SADC’s commitment to the people of the DRC remains unwavering.
"Through sustained regional engagement and diplomacy, we remain united in the belief that the DRC, a nation of immense promise, can achieve lasting peace, inclusive development, and restored dignity, especially for its most vulnerable populations.
"The closure of the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) on 15 July 2024 also marked a crucial moment in our efforts to restore peace in Cabo Delgado Province, in the face of rampant terrorism and violent extremism.
"This milestone underscores our region’s resolve to tackle complex security challenges through principled and coordinated action.
"From our peacekeeping experiences, including SAMIM, SADC has drawn important lessons, especially the importance of Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD).
"Tackling root causes such as poverty, inequality, underdevelopment and marginalisation is essential to prevent a return to uncertainty, instability and violence.
"Restoring livelihoods, promoting inclusive recovery, strengthening governance and showing care for the disadvantaged sections of our society are enabling keys to long-term peacebuilding.
"To advance this approach, the SADC Secretariat is finalising its PCRD and Transitional Justice Framework, a strategic instrument that will support Member States emerging from various forms of conflict and help prevent cyclical instability.
"This year, 2025, also marks the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, a milestone in promoting women’s participation in peace and security."
The meeting aims to assess progress, reaffirm collective resolve, and strengthen regional security, consolidating democratic institutions and enhancing community resilience.