Zimbabwe will prioritize initiatives aimed at addressing regional food insecurity and restoring peace and security next year as the country takes the lead in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Speaking after assuming the chairmanship of the SADC Council of Ministers, Zimbabwean Foreign Affairs Minister Frederick Shava stated that the regional integration programs of SADC could be jeopardized if measures are not taken to combat food insecurity and political instability throughout southern Africa.
« It is fair to say that despite all our efforts, much remains to be done. Our regional development agenda cannot be fulfilled in the absence of peace and tranquility in our region. », said Mr. Shava after taking over from Angolan Minister of External Relations, Mr. Tete António, as President of the Council of Ministers in Harare.
He emphasized that peace and stability are essential components for any regional transformation agenda, noting that “without them, our aspirations and vision will be seriously compromised.”
« It is in this spirit that we lament the effects of terrorism-induced conflicts in some areas of our region,” Mr. Shava stated.
Over the past three years, SADC has deployed intervention forces to Mozambique (SAMIM) and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), where insurgents have caused significant disruption in mineral-rich regions of both countries.
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi announced at the Council of Ministers meeting that the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) had completed its withdrawal from northern Mozambique in July, after achieving significant results against ISIS-linked insurgents.
« Alongside the Government of Mozambique and other partners, the region has helped establish a secure environment, allowing the return of over 600,000 of the 1.2 million internally displaced individuals to their areas of origin, paving the way for sustainable development in the region. », Mr. Magosi mentioned.
SAMIM was deployed in July 2021 and concluded its three-year mandate aimed at assisting the Mozambican government in combating terrorists in Cabo Delgado province.
The regional body also deployed the SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC) in December 2023 to support the Kinshasa authorities in restoring peace and security in the eastern part of the country following an escalation of conflicts and instability due to the resurgence of armed groups.
Mr. Magosi stated that the mission is currently active and urged SADC to “provide particular attention to it, considering the financial constraints associated with managing an operation of such significance aimed at restoring the security situation, facilitating humanitarian efforts, and saving lives.”
« However, it is gratifying to see that the United Nations Security Council has offered its support to this mission to alleviate the burden on the region. », concluded Mr. Magosi.
JN/fss/te/Sf/APA
Zimbabwe Leads SADC in Addressing Regional Food Insecurity and Peace Restoration
Prioritizing Regional Integration
Zimbabwe will prioritize initiatives to tackle regional food insecurity and restore peace and security next year as the country takes the lead in the Southern African Development Community (SADC).
Speaking after assuming the chairmanship of the SADC Council of Ministers, Zimbabwean Foreign Affairs Minister Frederick Shava emphasized that SADC’s regional integration programs face risks if food insecurity and political instability are not effectively addressed across Southern Africa. He declared, “It is fair to say that despite all our efforts, much remains to be done. Our regional development agenda cannot be achieved in the absence of peace and tranquility in our region.”
Understanding the Context of Instability
With political instability exacerbating food shortage issues, Shava highlighted that peace and stability are fundamental ingredients for any regional transformation agenda. He warned that without them, the collective aspirations and vision for Southern Africa would be significantly compromised.
The Impact of Terrorism on Peace and Security
Mr. Shava lamented the ramifications of terrorist-induced conflicts in certain regions of Southern Africa, noting that the impact has been particularly severe in the following areas:
- **Cabo Delgado province in Mozambique** – where ISIS-linked insurgents forced massive displacements.
- **Eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)** – a region plagued by armed group resurgence.
International Intervention Efforts
Over the past three years, SADC has initiated several intervention forces, notably:
- SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM)
- SADC Mission in the DRC (SAMIDRC)
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi announced at a recent Council of Ministers meeting that SAMIM had completed its withdrawal from northern Mozambique by July, achieving notable results in the fight against insurgents. He stated, “Together with the Government of Mozambique and other partners, the region has helped create a secure environment, enabling the return of more than 600,000 of the 1.2 million internally displaced people to their places of origin, paving the way for sustainable development in the region.”
Recent Developments in SADC Interventions
| Mission | Deployment Date | Objective | Status |
|---|---|---|---|
| SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM) | July 2021 | Counter insurgency in Cabo Delgado | Withdrawn in July 2023 |
| SADC Mission in DRC (SAMIDRC) | December 2023 | Restore peace and security in eastern DRC | Ongoing |
Future Initiatives Under SADC Leadership
As Zimbabwe assumes leadership, Minister Shava aims to highlight key initiatives that will be prioritized:
- Tackling Food Insecurity: The focus will be on sustainable agricultural practices and collaboration with member states to ensure food security.
- Restoring Peace and Stability: Engagement with regional powers to mediate and stabilize conflict zones.
- Strengthening Regional Partnerships: Fostering alliances with international organizations like the United Nations to support regional missions.
Challenges Facing SADC
Despite the optimistic initiatives, several substantial challenges lie ahead:
- Financial Constraints: Managing operations for peacekeeping and humanitarian assistance can be costly and resource-intensive.
- Political Will: Ensuring that all member states are committed to the vision of peace and stability.
- Logistical Issues: Coordinating interventions across different nations requires effective logistics and communication channels.
Conclusion: The Path Forward
The mandate on Zimbabwe as chair of the SADC Council of Ministers signifies a critical moment for collective action in Southern Africa. The emphasis on resolving food insecurity and reinstating peace and security is not only essential for the economic development of the region but also crucial for the welfare of its inhabitants.
In conclusion, as Zimbabwe and SADC member states work collaboratively toward these goals, the outcomes of these initiatives will shape the future landscape of Southern Africa, promoting stability and development for its people.
