DURBAN-The Republic of South Africa formally assumed the Chairship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers on 12 August 2026 in Durban, South Africa, from August 2026 to August 2027, following its tenure as Interim Chair since November 2025.
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South Africa, Honourable Ronald Lamola took over the chairship of the SADC Council of Ministers with a call for stronger regional integration, economic resilience, and shared prosperity.Hon. Lamola outlined a bold regional agenda focused on peace, economic transformation, infrastructure development and human capital growth, stressing that regional peace and security remain fundamental to development.
On his part, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Honourable Professor dr. Amon Murwira urged SADC Member States to deepen regional integration, strengthen self-reliance and accelerate the implementation of key development programmes.
The SADC Executive Secretary, His Excellency Mr. Elias M. Magosi called for stronger regional cooperation, resilience and self-reliance as Member States navigate a rapidly changing global environment.
The meeting of the Council of Ministers precedes the 46th Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government.
Council is an institution of SADC which oversees the functioning and development of the Community and ensure that the SADC policies, strategies, and programs are properly and effectively implemented and serves as an advisory body for the SADC Heads of State and Government on policy matters.