Ramaphosa Attends SADC Summit in Madagascar to Discuss Regional Integration and Cooperation

President Cyril Ramaphosa arriving in Antananarivo, Madagascar to attent the summit.

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is facing significant challenges as it gathers for its 45th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government in Antananarivo, Madagascar.

President Cyril Ramaphosa's presence at the summit underscores South Africa's commitment to regional integration and cooperation. However, the region's economic outlook is dire, with the World Bank expecting Sub-Saharan Africa to grow by only 3.5% in 2025.

This sluggish growth is unlikely to drive major economic improvements or developmental progress. Extreme poverty affects six in ten Southern Africans, and worryingly high youth unemployment risks further instability. The region continues to experience significant challenges related to conflict, with peacekeeping and conflict resolution initiatives led by SADC not meeting expectations.

One of the major concerns is the impact of the US-imposed tariffs on imports from SADC member states. Countries like Botswana, Namibia, Malawi, Mozambique, Zambia, Eswatini, and Seychelles face tariff increases ranging from 10% to 30%. These tariffs threaten to undermine the benefits of the African Growth and Opportunity Act (AGOA), which currently grants duty-free access to most SADC nations.

The SADC leaders will focus on accelerating regional integration amid global economic challenges while mitigating the tariff war. They will also review progress on the implementation of the report from the Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation. South Africa will be elected as the chair of SADC and host the 46th Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government in August 2026, marking a significant shift in leadership.

The return of Donald Trump's administration to the White House has raised concerns about the potential marginalization of SADC countries. Trump's preference for opportunistic bilateral deals rather than broader long-term region-wide partnerships undermines regional cooperation and unity of purpose. This approach could weaken the collective bargaining power of SADC and miniaturize its standing on the global stage.

In light of these challenges, SADC must prioritize transforming the region into a hub of economic activity by promoting cross-border infrastructure projects and fostering regional value chains. International investors should be encouraged to support regional infrastructure initiatives rather than focusing solely on individual country projects.

Agriculture remains a lifeline for most SADC economies, and large-scale agricultural revival will require cooperative programs, enhanced infrastructure, and updated production techniques.

The energy transition demands significant investment, and SADC should assess regional grid integration and evaluate its effects on job gains and losses. With significant renewable energy resources, including hydropower in Zambia and Mozambique, wind and solar in South Africa and Namibia, the region can transition to renewables. However, it still depends heavily on fossil fuels, which may hinder a smooth transition.

As SADC navigates these challenges, its ability to address regional crises and leverage opportunities will determine its relevance. The Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030 provides a blueprint for regional industrialization, food security, and climate resilience. However, tangible progress has often stalled due to inadequate infrastructure, poor transport infrastructure, and lack of economic diversification.

The stakes are high, and SADC must prioritize unity, aligning regional and country needs, and the urgent revitalization of agriculture. By investing in regional value chains, countries can move beyond exporting raw materials and create local industries for processing, packaging, and distributing agricultural products. This approach would generate jobs, boost food security, and sovereignty.

The path to a stronger, more unified SADC lies in a steadfast commitment to regionalism, where integration is prioritized above short-term gains or external agendas. SADC must actively push back against any external pressures that could undermine regional cooperation on economic and security matters. The region's future depends on its ability to work together and drive progress, rather than being driven by external factors.

In conclusion, the SADC summit provides a critical platform for leaders to address the region's challenges and opportunities. With a focus on industrialization, agricultural transformation, and energy transition, SADC can unlock new opportunities for growth and development. However, the region must navigate the complex landscape of global politics and economics, prioritizing unity and cooperation to achieve its goals.