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DURBAN, South Africa — Senior leaders and diplomats across Southern Africa assembled in Durban on Sunday for the Summit of the Ordinary SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
The crucial high-level gathering comes on the eve of the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, where regional security, election integrity, and conflict resolution top the agenda.
Delivering opening remarks on behalf of the regional body, Southern African Development Community (SADC) Executive Secretary His Excellency Mr. Elias M. Magosi underscored that regional security remains the absolute bedrock of economic integration, sustainable development, and shared prosperity.
“Lasting peace creates the conditions for investment, social progress, and prosperity,” Magosi told delegates. “Equally, sustainable development reinforces peace by improving livelihoods, expanding opportunities, and strengthening the resilience of our societies.”
Key Takeaways from the SADC Security Address
- Eastern DRC Security & Health Crisis: Deep concern remains over volatile security conditions and humanitarian distress in eastern DRC, alongside praise for swift regional solidarity during public health emergencies like the Bundibugyo Virus Disease.
- Orderly Troop Withdrawal: High praise was extended to Tanzanian President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan for facilitating the structured withdrawal of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) through Chato.
- Democratic Progress Across the Bloc: Successful deployment of SADC Electoral Observation Missions across Malawi, Seychelles, Tanzania, and most recently Zambia on August 13.
- Mozambique & Madagascar Stability: Post-election Inclusive National Dialogue in Mozambique and constitutional reform efforts in Madagascar point to broader regional political consensus.
- Regional Logistics Capacity: Ongoing progress toward the SADC Standby Force Regional Logistics Depot in Botswana to accelerate future emergency and peace support deployments.
Focus on Eastern DRC and Regional Crises
While noting that the broader SADC region remains generally stable and free from inter-state warfare, Magosi highlighted critical hot spots requiring urgent collective action. Chief among these is the ongoing crisis in the eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC).
Reaffirming SADC’s commitment to preventive diplomacy and peaceful mediation, the Executive Secretary extended condolences to communities affected by severe conflict and health outbreaks. He commended member states for intervening rapidly with humanitarian and technical support to combat the Bundibugyo Virus Disease in the DRC.
The summit specifically acknowledged outgoing Organ Troika Chair, President Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan of Tanzania, for her leadership. Magosi praised Tanzania’s diplomatic contributions and pivotal role in facilitating the safe, orderly exit of SAMIDRC peacekeepers through the Chato transit hub in north-western Tanzania.
Beyond the Congo, regional leaders reviewed political progress in Mozambique following its 2024 general elections, highlighting the launch of an Inclusive National Dialogue and security interventions in Cabo Delgado. In Madagascar, ongoing mediation by the SADC Panel of Elders has paved the way for constitutional reforms, supported by plans to establish a permanent SADC Liaison Office in the country.
Strengthening Electoral Integrity and Defence Readiness
Democratic governance formed a core pillar of the Organ Troika’s deliberations. Over the past year, SADC Electoral Observation Missions (SEOM) monitored elections across four member states:
| Country | Democratic Milestone / Event | SADC Assessment Focus |
| Zambia | General Elections (August 13, 2026) | Transparency, peaceful participation, voter access |
| Malawi | Scheduled Regional Elections | Institution building & electoral integrity |
| Seychelles | General Elections | Strengthening democratic governance frameworks |
| Tanzania | General Elections | Credible, transparent electoral processes |
Looking toward future crisis response, Magosi reported steady progress on establishing the SADC Standby Force Regional Logistics Depot in Botswana. Once fully operational, the facility will dramatically enhance the bloc’s capacity to deploy rapid peace support operations and deliver emergency humanitarian relief during natural disasters.
Leadership Transition in the Organ Troika
The Durban summit marks a transition in the leadership of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation. Deep appreciation was expressed to Malawi’s President, Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika, for his stewardship as Chairperson, represented at the meeting by Second Vice-President Enoch Kanzingeni Chihana.
His Majesty King Mswati III of the Kingdom of Eswatini is set to assume the Chairmanship of the Organ.
“Despite the challenges before us, there is every reason for confidence and optimism,” Magosi concluded. “Repeatedly, SADC has demonstrated that when we act in unity, solidarity, and shared purpose, we can overcome adversity, build resilience, and advance the well-being of our people.”
