At the SADC summit in Madagascar, the focus was on the conflict in the DRC and the region’s economic integration.

Mis à jour le 22 May 2026

The 45th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) is shaping up to be a pivotal event for the region. Madagascar, as host of this crucial meeting in mid-August 2026, is at the heart of complex issues, where security challenges, particularly the ongoing conflict in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), coexist with the stated ambition of stronger economic integration. Since its creation in 1992, SADC, which comprises 16 countries and represents more than 350 million people, has always placed these annual summits at the core of its strategy for defining a collective roadmap. These gatherings are much more than mere meetings; they are the driving force behind major political decisions that shape the strategic direction of an entire region, facing the devastating impacts of climate change, economic turmoil, and chronic security threats. The organization’s ability to forge a shared vision and translate commitments into concrete actions will be closely scrutinized, especially given that the past five years have been marked by a succession of health, economic, and security crises that have tested the resilience of its members. This is a unique opportunity to reaffirm solidarity and find lasting solutions for a stronger and more united Southern Africa.

• In short:🤝 The 45th SADC Summit will be held in Madagascar in August 2026, a pivotal moment for Southern Africa.
• 🕊️ The conflict in the DRC remains a top priority, with a focus on strategies for maintaining peace and regional stability. 📈 Economic integration and industrialization are central to the discussions, aiming to transform the region. 🌍 Past summits have laid the foundations for regional cooperation, addressing health, economic, and security crises. 💡 The SADC
• seeks to strengthen its value chains, develop skills, and promote a resilient energy transition. 🇲🇬 Madagascar, as host, will highlight its own challenges and opportunities, actively contributing to the development agenda.
• 📊 Particular attention is being paid to the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) to boost intra-regional trade.The 45th SADC Summit in Madagascar: A Crucial Milestone for the Future of Southern Africa
• The kick-off of the 45th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) in Madagascar, scheduled for mid-August 2026, marks a truly crucial milestone for the whole of Southern Africa. Since its founding in 1992, the SADC has established itself as an indispensable pillar of regional cooperation, bringing together sixteen nations committed to a shared pursuit of sustainable development and stability. These annual summits are far more than mere formalities; they are vital forums where the major strategic directions of the region, with its 350 million inhabitants, are shaped. Imagine the scope of the discussions, debates, and resulting decisions, influencing millions of lives. The theme chosen for this 45th summit, “Promoting industrialization, agricultural system transformation, and the energy transition for a resilient SADC,” perfectly illustrates the ambitions and challenges of the moment. It quickly becomes clear that industrialization is not just a buzzword; it is the key to breaking free from dependence on raw materials, an objective reiterated many times at previous summits. Consider the impact this can have: creating jobs, stimulating innovation, and enabling local populations to fully benefit from their resources. Agricultural transformation is essential for food security and adaptation to climate change, a scourge that is hitting this part of the continent hard. And the energy transition? It is a fantastic opportunity to build a cleaner and more self-reliant future, reducing vulnerability to external shocks. It is truly an ambitious and necessary agenda. This summit takes place in a complex regional context. The past five years, even before 2024, have been particularly turbulent, marked by a series of crises that have severely tested SADC’s resilience. These include the COVID-19 pandemic, which disrupted economies and health systems, as well as structural economic challenges and growing security threats. The conflict in the DRC, in particular, remains a major concern and continues to be at the heart of discussions, forcing SADC to constantly reassess its approaches to peace and security. Maintaining cohesion and acting in concert when faced with such deep and interconnected issues is no small feat. But the will to find shared solutions remains, and that’s what’s so great. Madagascar, as the host country, is in the spotlight, and this is a golden opportunity for the island to demonstrate its commitment and leadership within the region. Discussions will focus not only on the major strategic directions for the coming years, but also on the concrete implementation of commitments made at previous summits. The slow pace of reforms and weak regional infrastructure are often cited as obstacles to achieving objectives, but this meeting offers a new impetus. The leaders present will strive to consolidate regional integration by giving a real boost to key sectors, such as industrialization and energy, while also seeking ways to strengthen the capacities of member states. The aim is to leverage the strengths and resources of the SADC—whether natural, human, or technological—to build shared and sustainable prosperity. That is the true meaning of development, isn’t it? The Summit in Madagascar is therefore much more than just an annual tradition. It is a platform for exchange and decision-making that shapes the future of a region rich in potential but also aware of its vulnerabilities. It is about finding innovative ways to overcome obstacles, learning from past experiences, and charting a roadmap for a more resilient, prosperous, and peaceful SADC. The success of this meeting will depend on the leaders’ ability to translate discussions into concrete actions, strengthen mutual trust, and work hand in hand for the well-being of all citizens of Southern Africa. We can expect engaging debates and significant announcements that could well define the course of the region for the coming decade.
• SADC Summit Retrospective: Key Strategies for Regional Stability and Development To fully grasp the stakes of the 45th Summit in Madagascar, it is truly helpful to examine recent SADC summits. These meetings were pivotal moments that allowed for the outlining of priorities and the laying of the groundwork for regional cooperation. The last five meetings before 2024 were particularly intense, punctuated by the management of the health, economic, and security crises that shook Southern Africa. Each summit produced its share of resolutions, gradually shaping the collective vision of SADC. A growing commitment to translating words into action was evident, even if the road ahead remains long and fraught with challenges. It is by looking at the past that we better understand the present and prepare for the future. The Dar es Salaam Summit (2019): The Industrial BoostThe 39th summit, held in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, on August 17 and 18, 2019, marked a significant milestone with President John Magufuli assuming the SADC presidency. The theme, “An Industrial SADC for Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Development,” was crystal clear. Discussions truly emphasized regional industrialization as a key driver of economic transformation. Heads of State agreed to strengthen regional value chains, particularly in key sectors such as agribusiness, textiles, and leather. The goal? To reduce the unfortunate dependence on raw material exports and create more added value locally. This is a crucial step for development and self-reliance. On the peace and security front, the summit reaffirmed its support for the electoral processes in the DRC and Madagascar, while expressing serious concern about the persistent instability in certain areas of the region. The challenges ahead were already becoming apparent.
• The Maputo Virtual Summit (2020): Responding to the Crisis and New Challenges

The year 2020 forced the SADC to adapt. The 40th summit, chaired by Mozambique and its president, Filipe Nyusi, was held by videoconference on August 17 due to the global health crisis. The theme, “Promoting industrial development and the regional value chain for enhanced economic integration,” demonstrated a continuity of ambition. The resolutions emphasized the urgency of accelerating the ratification and implementation of the Protocol on Industry, adopted the previous year. The objective was to harmonize industrial policies for better regional cooperation. But a new and serious concern emerged: the growing security threat in Cabo Delgado, in northern Mozambique, which is facing a jihadist insurgency. The summit then mandated the Troika of the Political, Defense and Security Organ to closely monitor this explosive situation. It was a turning point, we could feel it.

The Lilongwe Summit (2021): Security Action and Climate ResilienceOn August 17 and 18, 2021, the 41st summit took place in Lilongwe, Malawi, under the chairmanship of Lazarus Chakwera. Its theme, “Strengthening Productive Capacities for Inclusive and Sustainable Economic Development in the SADC Region,” extended discussions on economic integration. But the landmark event was the approval and activation of the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM), a regional force deployed in July 2021 to support Mozambique in its fight against armed groups in Cabo Delgado. It was a strong decision, demonstrating a genuine commitment to collective action for peace. The heads of state also emphasized the effective implementation of the Regional Disaster Risk Management Strategy (2015-2030), as several SADC countries They are suffering the devastating impacts of climate change, from cyclones to droughts. The climate emergency cannot be ignored, that much is clear. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rvTCr3KdKmMThe Kinshasa Summit (2022): Strategic Minerals and Tensions in the DRC The Democratic Republic of Congo hosted the 42nd summit in Kinshasa on August 17 and 18, 2022, with Félix Tshisekedi holding the rotating presidency. Discussions focused primarily on the theme: “Promoting industrialization through agribusiness, mineral value chains, and the development of natural resources.” The summit highlighted the urgent need to exploit the region’s mineral wealth in a sustainable and equitable way for the local population. There was significant discussion on the local processing of strategic minerals such as cobalt, lithium, and nickel, which are essential for the global energy transition. Regarding security, tensions between the DRC and Rwanda were addressed, with a clear call for dialogue and de-escalation in eastern DRC, an unfortunately recurring conflict zone. This is a subject that is of great concern to all of us. The Luanda Summit (2023): Human Capital and Continental VisionThe 43rd summit was held in Luanda, Angola, on August 17 and 18, 2023, under the chairmanship of João Lourenço. The theme, “Capitalizing on Human Resources for Sustainable Industrial Development,” emphasized the importance of investing in skills. Key resolutions included the adoption of a regional plan for the development of technical and vocational skills, vital to supporting industrialization. The summit also endorsed a roadmap for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) at the SADC level, to maximize intra-regional trade opportunities. This is great for economic integration.

The leaders extended SAMIM’s mandate in Mozambique, welcoming the progress made while calling for a coordinated exit strategy. Finally, the issue of peaceful and inclusive elections was reiterated for the upcoming polls in several member states. It is clear that industrialization and structural transformation are at the heart of the SADC agenda, even if instability and limited infrastructure still hinder some ambitions. But the coordinated response in Cabo Delgado, with SAMIM, marked a turning point. This is a strengthening of regional cooperation; it is truly inspiring to see.

The Conflict in the DRC: A Major and Ongoing Challenge to Peace in Southern Africa The conflict shaking the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), particularly in its eastern region, undoubtedly represents one of the most pressing and complex challenges to peace and stability across Southern Africa. At the 45th SADC Summit in Madagascar in 2026, this issue will once again be at the heart of the Heads of State’s concerns. The painful history of this region, marked by decades of instability, foreign intervention, and human suffering, cannot be ignored. The SADC has always been involved, with varying degrees of success, in the search for solutions, recognizing that peace in the DRC is intrinsically linked to the security of all of Southern Africa. Historically, SADC summits have regularly addressed the issue of the DRC. As early as 2019, at the Dar es Salaam summit, the organization reaffirmed its support for electoral processes, a sign of its commitment to establishing democracy as the foundation of stability. In 2022, when the DRC held the SADC presidency, the organization…In Kinshasa, tensions with Rwanda were directly addressed, with calls for dialogue and de-escalation. These calls are essential, as they remind belligerents and regional actors of the need for a peaceful approach. But the reality on the ground is often far more complex, with a multitude of armed groups and economic interests fueling this conflict. A dynamic exists where natural resources, particularly strategic minerals like cobalt and coltan, play a major role in financing hostilities. It’s a vicious cycle. One of the major decisions that will influence discussions in Madagascar is the announcement, in March 2025, by the heads of state of the Troika Summit, of the end of the mandate of the SADC Mission in the DRC (SADC Mission in the DRC) and the gradual withdrawal of troops. This decision raises many questions: what will replace this mission? How will the SADC continue to support the DRC in its stabilization efforts? The withdrawal of a regional military force is always a delicate moment, and it is imperative that exit strategies be coordinated with robust and sustainable peacebuilding plans. It is not simply a matter of withdrawing troops, but of ensuring that the security vacuum is not immediately filled by a resurgence of violence. It is a delicate balance to strike, indeed.

The complexity of regional security in Southern Africa extends beyond the borders of the DRC. The deployment of SAMIM (SADC Mission in Mozambique) to Cabo Delgado, a direct response to the jihadist insurgency, demonstrated the SADC’s capacity to act collectively. This experience could inform discussions on the future of peace and security in the DRC. But every conflict has its own specific characteristics. In the DRC This involves not only combating armed groups, but also addressing the root causes of instability: governance, illegal resource exploitation, endemic poverty, and communal divisions. It is a colossal task requiring a multidimensional approach that integrates political, economic, and social dimensions.The impact of the conflict on the civilian population is devastating: millions displaced, violence, famine, and disrupted education. Such suffering cannot leave anyone indifferent. The SADC, in its mission of development, has a moral responsibility to provide concrete support and exert pressure to make peace a reality. Beyond military solutions, it is crucial to focus on inclusive political solutions, strengthen state institutions in the DRC, and promote reconciliation. The discussions in Madagascar must therefore go beyond simply analyzing the security situation to propose concrete roadmaps for lasting peace and a genuine reconstruction of the social and economic fabric. This is an immense challenge, but now is the time to show that regional cooperation can truly make a difference. The fate of millions of people depends on it, and we sincerely hope that significant progress will be made. Accelerating SADC Economic Integration: Drivers of Industrialization and Regional Prosperity Economic integration within SADC is not just a goal; it is the true engine of development and prosperity for all of Southern Africa. At the 45th Summit in Madagascar, strengthening this integration will, as always, be an absolute priority, anchored in the ambitious theme of industrialization, agricultural transformation, and energy transition. The leaders of theregion They clearly understood that market fragmentation and dependence on raw material exports are major obstacles to inclusive and sustainable growth. We’re talking about creating wealth locally, diversifying economies, and building resilience to global shocks. This is truly the key to a better future for all.

The Pillars of Regional Industrialization Past discussions have already highlighted the crucial importance of industrialization. The 2019 Dar es Salaam Summit made it its central theme, calling for the strengthening of regional value chains, particularly in agribusiness, textiles, and leather. These sectors are vital because they not only transform local products but also create numerous jobs. Imagine factories that transform locally grown cotton into finished garments, ready for export or sale within the region. That’s a completely different economic dynamic! The Kinshasa summit in 2022 then emphasized the sustainable exploitation of mineral resources, with a strong focus on the local processing of strategic minerals such as cobalt and lithium. These minerals, essential for the global energy transition, represent a fantastic opportunity to generate added value and substantial income for local populations. SADC seeks to break with the model where Africa exports its resources without fully benefiting from them, and that is truly a bold move. Challenges and Opportunities for Accelerated Integration Despite this stated commitment, numerous challenges remain. Weak regional infrastructure is a major obstacle. Consider roads, railways, ports, and energy networks, which are often insufficient to facilitate intra-regional trade. Non-tariff barriers, complex customs regulations, and the diverse economies of member states can also hinder the momentum of integration. Not to mention the impacts of climate change on agriculture, which threaten food security and the livelihoods of millions. But where there are challenges, there are opportunities! SADC possesses immense natural resources, a market of over 350 million consumers, and a young and dynamic population. The 2023 Luanda Summit, with its focus on human capital, highlighted the need to develop technical and vocational skills. Massive investment in education and training is essential so that these young people can actively participate in industrialization and innovation. It’s a virtuous circle that absolutely must be set in motion. We have the impression that the SADCis at a turning point, and that’s exciting.Comparative Analysis of Key Sectors in the SADC Reset filters No results found for your search.

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The Role of the AfCFTA and Cross-Border Cooperation The approval of a roadmap for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) at the SADClevel, decided at the Luanda summit, is a strong sign of this ambition for economic integration The AfCFTA is a historic opportunity to create the world’s largest single market, and SADC is well-positioned to capitalize on it. Maximizing intra-regional trade opportunities means less dependence on external markets and greater economic resilience. But this requires harmonized work on regulations, standards, and logistics infrastructure. Regional cooperation must also extend to cross-border projects, whether hydroelectric dams, transport corridors, or communication networks. Projects like the Maputo Development Corridor, for example, demonstrate what cooperation can achieve. It is both a logistical challenge and a tremendous opportunity for growth. Beyond large-scale projects, it is essential to support small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), which are the backbone of our economies. Facilitating their access to finance, technology, and regional markets is a powerful lever for economic integration. We are seeing a growing number of initiatives to strengthen entrepreneurial capacity, and that’s fantastic. The Madagascar Summit will seek to consolidate these efforts, identify new avenues for action, and ensure that the benefits of integration reach all segments of the population. This requires inclusive policies that reduce inequalities and provide opportunities for everyone. The vision is clear: a Southern Africa that uses its own strengths and resources to build a future of shared prosperity. This is a noble and achievable goal, provided there is the collective will and the necessary resources. We are confident that bold decisions will be made to accelerate this movement toward integration. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QElcMPSP2pY Madagascar at the Heart of Discussions: Ambitions and Challenges for Cooperation within SADC Hosting the 45th SADC Summit puts Madagascar in the spotlight, and it is a tremendous opportunity for the Great Island to reaffirm its role in regional cooperation. As an island nation and member of SADC, Madagascar brings a unique perspective to the discussions, particularly on crucial issues such as maritime security, biodiversity protection, and the potential of the blue economy. The stakes for Madagascar are multifaceted: strengthening its diplomatic position, attracting investment, and sharing its own challenges and successes in development. This is truly a strategic moment for the country, a chance to demonstrate its dynamism and commitment to the region’s objectives. Madagascar’s Specific Contributions Madagascar, with its exceptional natural resources and agricultural potential, can play a leading role in discussions on transforming the agricultural system, one of the summit’s major themes. The island can share its experience in managing natural resources and fragile ecosystems facing the impacts of climate change. Furthermore, its strategic geographic location makes it a key player in maritime security in the Indian Ocean, an issue of growing importance for the SADC. The importance of maritime routes for trade and regional cooperation cannot be overlooked. The blue economy, with its opportunities in fishing, aquaculture, and coastal tourism, could be an area where Madagascar can propose concrete initiatives, offering a model of sustainable and inclusive development. Island states within the SADC have specific concerns, and Madagascar’s voice is essential to ensuring they are heard. Challenges and Prospects for the IslandHowever,

Madagascar

Madagascar also faces significant challenges, particularly in infrastructure, vulnerability to natural disasters, and the fight against poverty. The summit will be an opportunity for the country to seek support from the SADC and its partners for major infrastructure projects. For example, the development of projects such as Ivato Airport, mentioned in the context of hosting major events, illustrates the need for investment to modernize the country and facilitate trade. The issue of political stability, often raised regarding Madagascar and its role in the SADC, remains crucial for attracting investment and ensuring sustainable growth. It is a delicate balance between openness to the world and consolidating national achievements. But with the leadership and dynamism that Madagascar possesses, there are promising prospects to explore. The fact that the Executive Secretary of the SADC, Elias Magosi, made a preparatory visit to Madagascar ahead of the summit, including in-depth discussions with President Rajoelina, demonstrates the importance placed on the smooth organization of this meeting and the alignment of agendas. The potential role of the President of Madagascar as head of the SADC is also a topic of discussion, which could provide further impetus to regional development and cooperation initiatives. In short, this is an opportunity for Madagascar to capitalize on this event to strengthen its ties with other member states, present its own initiatives, and actively participate in shaping strategies for Southern Africa. It is a golden opportunity to show that the island is a key player in the region, ready to take responsibility and contribute fully to collective efforts for peace and development. Ultimately, the 45th Summit in Madagascar is a platform where the ambitions of economic integration and conflict management, such as the one in the DRC, converge. This is where the vision of a stronger, more resilient, and more united SADC takes shape, with Madagascar playing an active and visible role in this quest for shared prosperity. We can expect concrete commitments and renewed partnerships, as regional cooperation is the only way to overcome the complex challenges facing Southern Africa. This is not just a summit; it is a commitment to the future of millions of people. Summit Year LocationSADC Chairperson

Main Theme

Resolution/Major Issue Regional Impact 🌍 2019 Dar es Salaam, Tanzania John Magufuli (Tanzania)An industrial SADC for inclusive and sustainable economic developmentStrengthening value chains, supporting elections in the DRC and Madagascar Boosting industrialization 🏭 2020 Maputo, Mozambique (virtual)Filipe Nyusi (Mozambique) Promoting industrial development and the regional value chain for greater economic integration Security threat in Cabo Delgado, accelerating the Protocol on Industry

2021

Lilongwe, Malawi Lazarus Chakwera (Malawi) Strengthening production capacities for inclusive and sustainable economic development in the region SADC Activation of the SAMIM in Mozambique, climate risk management Collective security action, climate resilience 💧 2022Kinshasa, DRC Félix Tshisekedi (DRC) Promoting industrialization through agribusiness, mineral value chains, and the development of natural resources

Development of strategic minerals, call for dialogue between the DRC and Rwanda

Focus on resources and peace in the DRC 💎2023Luanda, Angola João Lourenço (Angola)Capitalizing on human resources for sustainable industrial developmentSkills development plan, AfCFTA roadmap, SAMIM extension Human Investment, Continental Integration 🤝 2026Antananarivo, Madagascar To be determined Promoting industrialization, agricultural system transformation, and the energy transition for a resilient SADC

Focus on the conflict in the DRC and regional economic integration

Vision for the future of a resilient and united SADC 🇲🇬 What is the main theme of the 45th SADC Summit in Madagascar? The central theme of the 45th Summit, to be held in Madagascar in August 2026, is “Promoting industrialization, agricultural system transformation, and the energy transition for a resilient SADC.” It emphasizes the key drivers of sustainable economic development and the region’s capacity to address contemporary challenges. Why is the conflict in the DRC a major priority for SADC?The conflict in the DRC is a constant concern for SADC due to its devastating impact on regional stability, civilian populations, and the exploitation of natural resources. SADC has historically sought solutions through dialogue and peacekeeping missions, recognizing that resolving this conflict is essential for peace and development throughout Southern Africa. How does SADC plan to strengthen economic integration? SADC aims to strengthen economic integration through industrialization, the development of regional value chains, the valorization of natural resources, and investment in human capital. The organization seeks to reduce dependence on raw materials and maximize the opportunities offered by the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA). What role does Madagascar play in hosting this summit?As host, Madagascar strengthens its diplomatic position and its role within SADC. This is an opportunity for the island to highlight its own challenges and potential, particularly in maritime security, biodiversity, and the blue economy, while actively contributing to discussions on regional industrialization and development strategies. What are the main challenges facing SADC in achieving its objectives? SADC faces several major challenges, including persistent instability in some regions (such as the conflict in the DRC), slow structural reforms, weak regional infrastructure, non-tariff barriers, vulnerability to the impacts of climate change, and the need to diversify economies for more inclusive growth.