Stop exporting raw minerals, SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi tells region

SADC's Executive Secretary Elias Magosi has called upon Southern African nations to cease exporting raw minerals and instead focus on beneficiation, manufacturing, and industrialization. Speaking at the 46th SADC Summit in Durban, Magosi highlighted that, despite the region's abundant reserves of critical minerals, the challenge lies in transitioning from exporting raw materials to adding value and generating sustainable jobs and wealth.

Emphasizing the region's potential in clean energy, digital technologies, and advanced manufacturing, Magosi stated that SADC is well-positioned to capitalize on the global shift towards these sectors. He stressed that industrialization is crucial for economic diversification, job creation, poverty reduction, and improved living standards, and that modern and reliable infrastructure, such as sustainable energy systems, transport networks, and digital connectivity, is essential for industrialization to succeed.

Magosi also addressed regional security, noting the SADC's focus on political and security developments in the Democratic Republic of Congo, Madagascar, and Mozambique. He welcomed progress in diplomatic engagements and African-led peace initiatives while reaffirming SADC's commitment to supporting peace restoration and civilian protection.

Additionally, Magosi expressed solidarity with the Democratic Republic of Congo over its Ebola outbreak, emphasizing the importance of stronger regional cooperation on health security, disease surveillance, and coordinated responses. He also highlighted the need for deeper regional integration in the face of economic uncertainty, climate challenges, technological transformation, and shifting geopolitical realities, urging countries to trade, invest, and build together rather than in isolation.

Agriculture, a cornerstone of many SADC economies, has seen improvements in food security and a 16% reduction in food insecurity, attributed to investments in irrigation, mechanization, climate-smart agriculture, and agro-processing. Magosi called for continued investment in the agricultural value chain to enhance food security, create jobs, and drive inclusive growth.

Lastly, he congratulated President Cyril Ramaphosa on assuming the SADC chairship, pledging full support and unwavering commitment to facilitate his effective execution of the mandate.