Key Outcomes of the SADC Ministerial Committee of the Organ 26th Meeting in Lusaka

The 26th Meeting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation was held on July 11-12, 2024, at the Mulungushi International Conference Centre in Lusaka, Zambia. 

The meeting was chaired by Honourable Mulambo Haimbe, SC, M.P, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation of Zambia, in his capacity as the Chairperson of the MCO.

In his opening remarks, Hon. Haimbe highlighted the SADC region’s ongoing efforts to maintain peace and security, despite the persistent challenges posed by terrorism and other transnational organized crimes. 

He emphasized the need for continued cooperation among SADC Member States to address these threats.

Hon. Haimbe commended the progress made in restoring peace and security in Cabo Delgado Province, northern Mozambique. He assured that even with the withdrawal of the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM), the region remains committed to supporting Mozambique in its fight against terrorism. 

Hon. Haimbe expressed confidence that the withdrawal of SAMIM would not result in a security vacuum, reversing the gains achieved by the mission.

SADC Executive Secretary, His Excellency Mr. Elias M. Magosi, underscored the importance of peace and stability in the region’s integration and development agenda. He noted that SADC has established robust structures and legal frameworks to ensure sustainable peace, security, and the consolidation of democracy.

Key Outcomes of the Meeting

Commitment to Regional Peace and Security: The MCO reaffirmed its commitment to promoting peace, security, and stability to create a conducive environment for regional cooperation, integration, and sustainable development.

Condolences and Tributes: The MCO expressed condolences to the Republic of Malawi on the passing of Dr. Saulos Klaus Chilima, Vice President of Malawi, and Her Excellency Dr. Shanil Dzimbiri, former First Lady of Malawi. Condolences were also extended to the families of soldiers who lost their lives during the SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC) and to the Government and people of the Democratic Republic of Congo on the passing of Commissioner Patrick-Alain Lonji Mpoyi.

Support for SAMIDRC and Luanda Process: The MCO commended Angola’s support for SAMIDRC and its facilitation of the Luanda process. The committee welcomed the United Nations’ efforts to explore options for supporting SAMIDRC.

SAMIM Mission Achievements: The MCO commended SAMIM Leadership and personnel, along with contributing countries, for their efforts in restoring security in Cabo Delgado. The committee directed a review of SAMIM’s operations to enhance future missions’ effectiveness.

Elections and Democracy: The MCO congratulated Member States that held successful elections between July 2023 and July 2024. The committee noted the upcoming elections in Mozambique, Botswana, Mauritius, and Namibia, urging support for the SADC Electoral Observation Missions (SEOMs).

Appointments to the SADC Electoral Advisory Council: The MCO approved the appointment of Ms. Elodi Ntamuzinda W’lgulu (DRC), Dr. Leonard Lenna Sesa (Botswana), and Ambassador Joseph Nourrice (Seychelles) as members of the SADC Electoral Advisory Council (SEAC). Advocate Notemba Tjipueja (Namibia) and Madam Jennifer Chiriga (Zimbabwe) were congratulated on their election as SEAC Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson, respectively.

Facilitation of Movement of Persons: The MCO commended Member States implementing bilateral visa exemptions and urged others to ratify the SADC Protocol on Facilitation of Movement of Persons. The bilateral agreement between Botswana and Namibia to use national identity documents for entry was particularly noted.

Combating Trafficking in Persons: The MCO urged Member States to enact legislation against trafficking in persons, guided by UNODC Model Law, and to address gaps in protecting children from abduction.

Support for the Kingdom of Lesotho: The MCO commended the SADC Panel of Elders and Mediation Reference Group for supporting reforms in Lesotho and urged expedited passage of the Omnibus Bill.

Network of Women Mediators: The MCO approved guidelines for establishing a Network of Women Mediators to promote women’s roles in conflict prevention, mediation, and peacebuilding.

Pan-African Multi-Country Facility: The MCO commended Zimbabwe for leading the construction of a Pan-African facility to showcase African Liberation history and urged Member States to contribute materials and artifacts.

The MCO, comprising Ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs, Defence, Public Security, and State Security from all SADC Member States, coordinates efforts to promote peace and security in the region.