Durban: Southern African Development Community (SADC) Executive Secretary Elias Magosi has highlighted progress made by the region in energy, digital connectivity, trade, investment, and agriculture, while calling for deeper regional cooperation to address persistent challenges facing Member States. Magosi was speaking on Wednesday at the official opening of the Ordinary Meeting of the SADC Council of Ministers in Durban.
According to South African Government News Agency, Magosi stated that the region was meeting against the backdrop of profound global change, including geopolitical tensions, shifting economic realities, declining development assistance, and conflicts in various parts of the world. He emphasized that these developments pose challenges for the region but also reinforce the need for trust and cooperation to strengthen regional resilience and drive the development agenda. This understanding guided the Retreat of SADC Ministers of Foreign Affairs held in Skukuza, Mpumalanga, in May, where commitments to deeper regional integration and sustainable development were reaffirmed.
Magosi reported that the SADC region added 3,253 megawatts of new installed generation capacity across 12 mainland Member States during the 2025/26 financial year, with an additional 1,611 megawatts from Island States. The region's total installed capacity now stands at 88,202 megawatts, with operational capacity reaching 54,812 megawatts, exceeding peak demand and reserve requirements. Regional electricity access increased from 56% in 2024 to 60% in 2025, though this remains below the 2030 target of 85% access. Magosi called for accelerated grid expansion and investment in off-grid and renewable energy solutions. Internet penetration in the region rose to 57.2%, 4G coverage reached 79.2%, and mobile penetration stood at 95.2%, aiding innovation and economic opportunities.
Economic transformation remains central to SADC's regional integration agenda, though performance across key economic indicators is mixed. Manufacturing Value Added (MVA) as a share of GDP declined from 11.3% in 2024 to 10.9% in 2025, indicating the need to strengthen industrialization. Intra-regional trade grew modestly, reaching 20.2% in 2025, driven by manufactured products, fuels, machinery, and agricultural goods. The region's merchandise trade balance remained positive at US$27.9 billion, despite a decline of US$2.2 billion in 2025. Foreign Direct Investment increased by 44% to US$11 billion, driven by investments in Mozambique and South Africa, though investment in research and development remains below targets.
Agriculture serves as the backbone of SADC economies, providing livelihoods for over 70% of the population. Agricultural growth estimated between 2% and 3% in 2025 marks an improvement from previous years. A 16% reduction in food insecurity has been noted, though Foot-and-Mouth Disease outbreaks pose threats to livestock production. Magosi stressed the importance of integrating youth priorities into agrifood systems and investment plans.
Peace, security, and good governance are fundamental to sustainable development. Progress in addressing challenges in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Madagascar was noted, though women's participation in peace processes remains low. Magosi reported that 15 Member States implement a 90-day visa-free regime for SADC citizens, with Mauritius, Seychelles, and Zimbabwe exempting all Member States from visa requirements.
Magosi warned of climate change threats to development gains, citing devastating floods and the likelihood of a severe El Ni±o event. He called for investment in resilience and highlighted the need for operationalizing the SADC Humanitarian Emergency Operations Centre in Mozambique. On health, solidarity was expressed with the Democratic Republic of Congo amid the Bundibugyo Virus Disease outbreak, emphasizing sustainable health financing as crucial for development.
In conclusion, Magosi expressed support for Zambia's upcoming General Elections, emphasizing the importance of the electoral process in strengthening democratic obligations. He commended South Africa for hosting the 9th SADC Industrialisation Week, underscoring the region's determination to accelerate industrialization and attract investment. The Ordinary Meeting of the SADC Council of Ministers in Durban aims to consider regional priorities and provide strategic guidance for implementing the SADC Vision.
Source: South African Government News Agency