Madagascar Assumes Chair of SADC Council of Ministers Ahead of 45th Summit
Madagascar has officially taken over the chairmanship of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Council of Ministers, as the regional body meets from 12 to 14 August 2025 in Antananarivo to discuss policies and programmes aimed at accelerating integration, enhancing peace and security, and fostering inclusive economic growth.
The Council meeting serves as a preparatory platform for the 45th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for 17 August 2025, during which final recommendations will be presented for adoption. This year’s gathering is being held under the theme “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC.”
In a ceremonial handover, Honourable Professor Amon Murwira, Zimbabwe’s Minister of International Relations and Trade, transferred the chairmanship to Honourable Dr Rafaravavitafika Rasata, Madagascar’s Minister of Foreign Affairs.
Professor Murwira underscored the urgency of ratifying SADC Protocols and Agreements, warning that delays undermine the region’s shared vision for unity and prosperity. “Without timely ratification, our ability to establish a robust, rules-based framework is significantly hampered,” he stressed, while pledging Zimbabwe’s full support to the incoming chair.
In her acceptance remarks, Dr Rasata expressed gratitude to Member States for entrusting Madagascar with the role and pledged to champion the inclusion of island states within SADC’s development agenda.
She highlighted the potential of uniting maritime and environmental assets with the agricultural and industrial strengths of continental members to build a more competitive and self-reliant region.
During the three-day meeting, ministers will assess progress on the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030, review institutional reports, and adopt measures to advance industrialisation, infrastructure development, food security, energy transition, and peace and security.
The outcomes will directly inform the 45th SADC Summit, where heads of state will chart the next steps towards a more integrated, resilient, and prosperous Southern African region.
