Zambia Calls for Stronger Regional Cooperation Ahead of SADC Council Meeting
Zambia’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, Honourable Mulambo Haimbe, S.C., M.P., has called for enhanced regional cooperation as Southern African Development Community (SADC) Ministers prepare to meet for the Council of Ministers session from 12 to 13 March 2026 in Pretoria.
Upon arrival, Honourable Haimbe highlighted the significance of the meeting, noting that industrialisation, agricultural transformation and energy transition are key areas for regional economic growth.
“This is a very important meeting for our region. It allows member states to focus on priorities such as industrialisation, agriculture and energy transition which are critical for strengthening our economies,” he said.
The Minister added that Zambia regards the gathering as an opportunity to strengthen regional integration and advance its economic diplomacy agenda.
During his visit, Haimbe also met with diplomatic staff at the Zambia High Commission in Pretoria, led by High Commissioner Grace Mutembo, to brief the Mission on Zambia’s priorities for the engagement.
High Commissioner Mutembo emphasised that the Mission continues to advance Zambia’s economic diplomacy objectives by promoting trade, investment and partnerships with South Africa.
“Our Mission continues to position Zambia as an attractive investment and trade destination while facilitating cooperation in sectors such as mining, energy, agriculture, tourism and infrastructure,” she said.
The SADC Council of Ministers, chaired by South Africa’s Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Honourable Ronald Lamola, will review regional programmes and discuss critical issues including food security, disaster risk management, and the implementation of the SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap (2015–2063).
