The 45th Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) took place at the IVATO Conference Centre in Antananarivo, Republic of Madagascar. Held under the theme “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC,” the gathering marked a defining moment for the regional bloc.
His Excellency Mr. Andry Rajoelina, President of Madagascar, was elected as the new Chairperson of SADC. He succeeds His Excellency Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe, who guided the organisation over the past year. In his acceptance speech, President Rajoelina highlighted the importance of unity and shared responsibility in advancing the integration agenda. He stressed the need to strengthen economic resilience, enhance regional stability, and accelerate sustainable development to improve the lives of Southern Africa’s citizens.
A historic element of the summit was the participation of four newly elected leaders who addressed the gathering for the first time. They were Advocate Duma Boko, President of Botswana, His Excellency Mr. Daniel Chapo, President of Mozambique, Her Excellency Dr. Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah, President of Namibia, and Honourable Prime Minister Dr. Navinchandra Ramgoolam, Prime Minister of Mauritius.
In their maiden speeches, the leaders reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening regional cooperation. They underscored the importance of consolidating peace and security while advancing industrialisation, trade, and investment as the foundation for inclusive growth. Their presence symbolised a new chapter for SADC, combining continuity with change in leadership.
The summit reinforced the organisation’s central role in shaping Southern Africa’s future. With new leadership and a clear focus on industrialisation, agriculture, and energy, the region has renewed momentum to drive resilience and inclusive development across its member states.
