“Stability is Key” – SADC Executive Secretary Meets Seychelles Foreign Minister
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Executive Secretary, H.E. Elias M. Magosi, held a courtesy meeting today with the Minister of Foreign Affairs and the Diaspora of the Republic of Seychelles, H.E. Mr. Barry Faure, ahead of his scheduled engagement with President H.E. Dr. Patrick Herminie tomorrow.
The meeting formed part of SADC’s established practice of engaging national leadership to brief Member States on the Community’s mandate, regional priorities, and areas where collaboration with International Cooperating Partners can provide targeted support.
Discussions focused on regional integration, peace and security, with stability highlighted as a foundation for sustainable development, economic growth, and deeper regional cooperation. H.E. Magosi shared insights from his recent engagement with Madagascar’s leadership, particularly on matters relating to peace and stability in the region.
Minister Faure welcomed the visit and underscored Seychelles’ appreciation of its membership in SADC. He acknowledged the Community’s role in observing the country’s recent elections and confirmed that the report from the SADC Election Observation Mission has been formally submitted to the Government of Seychelles.
Outstanding financial matters relating to Seychelles’ contributions to the SAMIDRC Mission have also been resolved, paving the way for full participation in future SADC activities.
Other topics included Seychelles’ interest in the UN Multidimensional Vulnerability Index (MVI) to better reflect the structural vulnerabilities of small island developing states and improve access to concessional financing.
The meeting also addressed enhanced maritime cooperation, sustainable and resilient energy solutions for island states, and continued regional and international support for Madagascar’s ongoing transition process.
Minister Faure also announced that Seychelles will host the SADC Parliamentary Forum in June 2026, expressing hope that it will eventually evolve into a SADC Parliament.
Executive Secretary Magosi highlighted the importance of industrialisation through regional value chains, agro-processing to improve food security and employment, expanded intra-regional trade, and the establishment of a regional energy market to strengthen energy security across Member States, including island economies.
He encouraged Member States to ratify the SADC Regional Development Fund (RDF), noting that innovative financing mechanisms are being pursued to mobilise resources for regional development priorities.
