Exchanges for Better Continental Economic Integration

From July 28 to August 1, 2025, Madagascar will host SADC Industrialization Week (SIW 2025).

This regional event will bring together the 16 member countries of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). According to the official communiqué, the objective is to strengthen cooperation between countries to develop industry in the region.

This meeting is part of the SADC Industrialization Strategy for the period 2015 to 2063, which aims to establish common value chains in key sectors. During the week, representatives from governments, businesses, universities, and civil society will gather. Together, these stakeholders will exchange ideas, share experiences, and launch projects.

“Everyone’s involvement is essential to the success of this industrial transformation,” declared Rasata Rafaravavitafika, Minister of Foreign Affairs. Another focus of the event will be integration into the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). This will facilitate access to African markets and improve the sales of products manufactured in the region.

Several topics will be addressed during the week: the exploitation of natural resources, the processing of agricultural products, pharmaceutical production, renewable energy, as well as youth and women’s entrepreneurship.

The environment and sustainable development will also be at the heart of the discussions. SIW 2025 represents an important milestone for Madagascar and the entire region. “This event reflects the commitment of SADC countries to work together to build a stronger, more independent economy better adapted to the needs of their populations,” she added.