President Emmerson Mnangagwa Assumes SADC Chairmanship, Vows to Drive Regional Growth.

President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe has taken over the chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), outlining a plan for sustainable development within the regional economic bloc.

In his address at the 44th Ordinary SADC Summit in Harare, President Mnangagwa highlighted the importance of innovation in driving economic transformation and development. He emphasized the need to leverage the region’s human capital and technological advancements to modernize and industrialize SADC, ultimately improving the quality of life for its citizens.

President Mnangagwa stressed the urgency of maximizing the value of SADC’s natural resources through innovation, value addition, and beneficiation. He called for the implementation of innovative strategies across all sectors to accelerate the region’s development.

Acknowledging the impact of climate change-induced natural disasters on the region, President Mnangagwa emphasized the need for increased investment in climate-resilient agriculture and food systems. He also stressed the importance of strengthening SADC’s capacity to respond to humanitarian emergencies through the full operationalization of the SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Centre.

President Mnangagwa highlighted the critical role of energy infrastructure development, particularly renewable energy sources, in modernizing and industrializing SADC countries. He emphasized the need to address the disproportionate impact of climate change on developing nations, despite their minimal contribution to global carbon emissions.

He reiterated the importance of accelerating regional projects and programs, including cross-border energy projects, transportation infrastructure development, and climate-resilient agriculture. He also stressed the need to promote manufacturing, tourism, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

President Mnangagwa called for an end to the conflict in Palestine and urged the implementation of the United Nations’ Two-State solution. He also expressed support for the independence of the people of Western Sahara.

Reiterating Zimbabwe’s commitment to peaceful conflict resolution, President Mnangagwa stated the country’s willingness to contribute to peace and stability within the SADC region and across the African continent.

The 44th Ordinary SADC Summit was attended by prominent figures from the region.