MBABANE-The Kingdom of Eswatini has reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, security and stability in Southern Africa following its assumption of the Chairship of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
Speaking during an induction briefing conducted by the SADC Secretariat, on 09 September 2026, in Mbabane, Eswatini, the Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Mr Sizwe Ntshangase, said the Kingdom of Eswatini was assuming the responsibility with humility and commitment to the values and objectives of SADC.
The induction, attended by senior government officials and key stakeholders, was designed to equip Eswatini with a comprehensive understanding of the responsibilities, procedures, programmes, and expectations associated with leading the regional peace and security body.
Mr. Ntshangase said the briefing was instrumental in helping the Kingdom gain a deeper understanding of the Chairship's responsibilities and expectations. He emphasised that Eswatini would work closely with the SADC Secretariat, the Organ Troika, Member States, and other stakeholders to advance the Organ's mandate.
The SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation is mandated to promote peace, security, political stability, democratic governance, and the rule of law among Member States.
It plays a critical role in conflict prevention and resolution, election observation, strengthening defence and security cooperation, and addressing emerging threats such as terrorism, cybercrime, and human trafficking.
During the briefing, Professor Kula Ishmael Theletsane, Director of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs at the SADC Secretariat, outlined the Organ's mandate and key programmes.
These include political and diplomatic engagement, conflict prevention and resolution, mediation, election observation, defence cooperation, public and state security, regional policing cooperation, counter-terrorism initiatives, and early warning systems.
Professor Theletsane also highlighted the responsibilities of the Chairperson of the SADC Organ, which include providing strategic leadership, facilitating consultations among Member States, coordinating regional responses to political and security developments, and overseeing the implementation of decisions made by the Summit and the Organ Troika.
The briefing further covered the minimum standards and requirements for hosting SADC meetings, ensuring consistency, efficiency, and compliance with regional protocols during official engagements.
Participants were also taken through SADC branding, publicity and visibility guidelines aimed at promoting a unified regional identity and enhancing public awareness of the organisation's programmes, activities, and achievements.