South Africa to lead SADC chairpersonship: Key issues on the agenda
South Africa is set to assume the chairpersonship of the Southern African Development Community, with migration, trade, and security high on the agenda at the 46th SADC Summit in Durban.
South Africa will assume leadership of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) at the upcoming 46th Ordinary SADC Summit in Durban on August 17. The agenda includes migration, trade, critical minerals, industrialization, and security. President Cyril Ramaphosa will serve as chairperson for the 2026/27 term, with South Africa aiming to turn regional commitments into practical outcomes and advance economic development.
International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola emphasized the need to convert regional ambitions into tangible results, particularly in addressing migration challenges through lawful regional cooperation. South Africa plans to push member states to ratify the Protocol on the Facilitation of Movement of Persons, which would provide a framework for people movement.
Seven member states have ratified the protocol, but 11 ratifications are required for it to take effect. Economic integration is a major priority, with South Africa seeking to increase intra-SADC trade from 20% to 50%, focusing on manufacturing, investment, and beneficiation of critical minerals. Infrastructure development, such as transport corridors, energy, ports, digital networks, and water, is also expected to be supported.
Security remains a focus, with the joint operation by NATJOINTS, starting on August 3, ensuring the summit's safety while permitting lawful protests.
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