South Africa is set to take the lead in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) as it assumes the chairpersonship for the 2026/27 term, with a clear focus on addressing migration challenges, boosting regional trade, advancing industrialisation and enhancing security. President Cyril Ramaphosa will oversee the region’s strategic direction during his tenure, with migration governance identified as a top priority. Department of International Relations and Cooperation (Dirco) spokesperson Chrispin Phiri outlined South Africa’s vision, emphasizing the need for a coordinated and lawful approach to managing migration flows. He stated that the movement of people across the region is deeply connected to economic opportunities and employment, and should not be reduced solely to a security concern. “Addressing the challenges associated with irregular migration must occur within an orderly and lawful framework,” Phiri said, underscoring the importance of regional cooperation in tackling the complex dynamics of migration. The migration agenda will be central to South Africa’s efforts during its SADC chairmanship, with the government pushing for the ratification of the Protocol on the Facilitation of Movement of Persons. This protocol aims to create a structured framework for the movement of people across the region, enabling regular and orderly migration. The initiative comes amid heightened tensions in South Africa over irregular migration, border control and the influx of migrants from neighboring countries. International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola has called on SADC members to sign the protocol, arguing that migration challenges must be tackled through lawful regional collaboration. According to SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi, seven member states have already ratified the protocol, though 11 are needed for it to become operational. The progress, or lack thereof, on this front will be a key indicator of the summit’s effectiveness in fostering regional unity. In addition to migration, South Africa seeks to enhance regional trade and industrialisation, with a particular emphasis on critical minerals. The country aims to increase intra-SADC trade from its current level of around 20% to a target of 50%. This goal aligns with broader efforts to transform the region’s resource-based economy into one that generates more value locally. Lamola highlighted that SADC nations must shift away from merely exporting raw materials and instead focus on beneficiation, regional value chains and increased trade among themselves. The region holds nearly 30% of the world’s proven critical mineral reserves, including 50% of global cobalt and 20% of graphite. By developing these resources within the region, South Africa hopes to create sustainable employment and economic growth while reducing reliance on external markets. Infrastructure development is also a cornerstone of South Africa’s plan, with the government aiming to expand and modernize transportation networks, energy grids, ports, digital systems and water supply across the region. Reliable infrastructure is essential for supporting regional connectivity, industrialisation and the efficient movement of goods and services. Phiri emphasized that regional manufacturing currently accounts for just 10% of GDP, highlighting the urgent need to boost production capacity to meet employment demands. The focus on infrastructure is part of a larger effort to strengthen economic integration and ensure that the region can compete effectively in global markets. Social and human-capital development will play a crucial role in South Africa’s regional strategy, especially given the continent’s youthful demographic. Africa has the youngest population in the world, with a median age of 19 and nearly 60% of its inhabitants under 25. By 2030, one in four young people globally will be from Africa, making youth empowerment a vital component of long-term development. South Africa plans to prioritize initiatives that promote gender equality, climate resilience and disaster risk management, recognizing the interconnected nature of these challenges. The government believes that investing in education, skills training and inclusive policies will help harness the potential of Africa’s youth and drive sustainable progress. Security remains a pressing concern, particularly as the 46th SADC Summit convenes in Durban. A major security operation, NATJOINTS, has begun ahead of the summit, covering key locations such as the International Convention Centre, accommodation sites, transport routes and public areas. Lieutenant General Tebello Mosikili, head of the operation, has warned against any attempt to disrupt the summit, stating that such actions will not be tolerated. While lawful protests are permitted, authorities have made it clear that criminal activities, intimidation and interference with the summit will face strict enforcement. The security measures reflect the gravity of the situation, as the summit represents a pivotal moment for regional cooperation and decision-making.
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