Preparations Underway: DIRCO Minister Engages SADC Chief on Upcoming Summit
Image by: DIRCO
On 27 January 2026, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation Ronald Lamola welcomed SADC Executive Secretary Elias M. Magosi at the OR Tambo Building, DIRCO headquarters. The high-level meeting focused on preparations for South Africa’s hosting of the 46th SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, scheduled for August 2026.
As incoming Chair following an interim appointment after Madagascar’s withdrawal, South Africa aims to advance regional priorities including industrialisation, agricultural transformation, and energy security. The discussions underscored strengthened cooperation within the Southern African Development Community amid ongoing efforts to deepen integration and address shared challenges.
Minister Lamola emphasised South Africa’s commitment to effective leadership and inclusive dialogue. Executive Secretary Magosi commended the host nation’s readiness and strategic vision for the summit. The engagement marks a key step in coordinating logistics, agendas, and outcomes for the landmark event, reinforcing SADC’s collective pursuit of sustainable development and stability in the region.
