By Cremilda Macuácua, China Africa News
Mpumalanga, 25,May 2026 — Southern African nations have reaffirmed their commitment to strengthening bilateral relations, deepening regional integration, and enhancing policy coordination, according to a joint statement released after a high-level ministerial retreat in South Africa.
Foreign affairs ministers from member states of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) met from May 22 to 24 at Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga Province, where discussions focused on boosting regional resilience amid growing global economic and geopolitical challenges.
The ministers pledged to present a more unified regional voice in international engagements while improving cooperation in trade, infrastructure, energy, agriculture, and investment. They also emphasized the need for coordinated action to address food insecurity, climate pressures, and disruptions to global supply chains.
The statement noted concern over ongoing geopolitical tensions, particularly in the Middle East, which continue to affect global energy markets, tourism, financial systems, and food prices.
Leaders further reiterated support for the SADC Vision 2050 agenda aimed at promoting sustainable development, economic growth, and long-term regional stability across Southern Africa.
