The Extraordinary Summit of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Heads of State and Government is being held today, November 20, 2024, in Harare, Zimbabwe. The summit focuses on addressing pressing security concerns in the region, with particular attention to the situation in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC).
Leadership and Objectives
The summit is chaired by Dr. Emmerson Mnangagwa, President of Zimbabwe and SADC Chairperson. Leaders will receive an update on the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), which was launched on December 15, 2023, with a one-year mandate. This mission aims to restore peace and stability in the DRC, facilitating conditions for sustainable development in the region.
Preparatory Meetings and Broader Goals
The summit is preceded by the Extraordinary SADC Organ Troika Summit, chaired by Dr. Samia Suluhu Hassan, President of Tanzania and Chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation. Additionally, the event is supported by meetings of senior officials, the Ministerial Committee on Politics and Security, and the SADC Council of Ministers.
Beyond addressing the DRC crisis, the summit aims to reinforce the region’s commitment to political stability, peacebuilding, and enhanced economic cooperation. This gathering underscores SADC’s role as a vital platform for addressing regional challenges and fostering development.
This summit reflects the collective determination of Southern African nations to achieve long-term security and prosperity for all member states.
