A new beginning for the region

The acceleration of regional integration was at the heart of the debates during the Council of Ministers of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), meeting from August 12 to 14, 2025 in Antananarivo.

This meeting prepares for the 45th session of the SADC Heads of State and Government Summit, scheduled for August 17, where the main programs and recommendations will be examined and adopted. This year’s theme, “Promoting industrialization, transformation of the agricultural system and energy transition for a resilient SADC,” guided the discussions. Ministers reviewed progress made in the implementation of the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030, as well as reports from Community institutions.

An important moment of this meeting was the handover of the presidency of the Council of Ministers. Professor Amon Murwira, Minister of International Relations and Trade of Zimbabwe, handed over the presidency to the Malagasy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rafaravavitafika Rasata.

In his speech, Professor Murwira highlighted that the slow implementation of SADC agreements and protocols is slowing down regional integration. “This delay weakens our vision of a united and prosperous region,” he explained. The latter expressed his support for Madagascar and called on other member countries to fully commit. For her part, Minister Rasata thanked Member States for the trust placed in Madagascar and assured that the country is ready to fully fulfill this role throughout the duration of the mandate.

According to her, “particular attention must be paid to island states like Madagascar, taking into account their specific realities.” “By promoting the maritime and cultural assets of the islands, as well as the agricultural and industrial resources of continental countries, SADC will be able to become a stronger and competitive community” she explained.