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FOREIGN
POLICY
JOURNAL
Reflecting on 2018
international relations
& cooperation
Department:
International Relations and Cooperation
REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
www.dirco.gov.za
Executive editors
Ndivhuwo Mabaya
Zane Dangor
Mpho Mmutle
Lloyd Mhlanga
Adv. Menzi Simelane
CONTENTS
FOREIGN POLICY JOURNAL REFLECTING ON 2018
Content managers
Dr Sharon Horton-Herselman
Tuso Zibula
Michelle Greeff
Editing and proofreading
Delien Burger
Photography
INTRODUCTION the SADC Council of Ministers, 13 August 2018,
Windhoek, Namibia
Jacoline Schoonees
CHAPTER 1:
Yolande Snyman
SOUTH AFRICA’S CHAIRSHIP OF THE SOUTHERN • Maiden speech by President Cyril Ramaphosa
Katlholo Maifadi
Yandisa Monakali
AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY (SADC) at the 38th SADC Summit, Windhoek, Namibia,
2017 – 2018 17 August 2018
ISBN • Opening remarks by Dr Stergomena Lawrence • Keynote address by President Cyril Ramaphosa
00-0-000-0000-0 Tax, SADC Executive Secretary, on the occasion at the 38th SADC Summit, Windhoek, Namibia,
of the Official Opening of the SADC Council of 17 August 2018
Ministers, OR Tambo Building, Pretoria, 26 March
2018
CHAPTER 2:
• Welcome remarks by the Chairperson of the SADC SOUTH AFRICA’S CHAIRSHIP OF THE BRAZIL,
Council of Ministers, Lindiwe Sisulu, Minister of RUSSIA, INDIA, CHINA, SOUTH AFRICA (BRICS)
International Relations and Cooperation of South FORUM
Africa, 26 March 2018 • Opening remarks by Minister Lindiwe Sisulu at
• Opening remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa the Meeting of the BRICS Ministers of Foreign
during the SADC Double Troika Summit, Luanda, Affairs/International Relations, OR Tambo Building,
Angola, 24 April 2018 Pretoria, 4 June 2018
• Opening remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa • Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa during
OR TAMBO BUILDING during the SADC Double Troika Summit, Luanda, the Open Session of the 10th BRICS Summit,
Private Bag X152, PRETORIA, 0001, Republic of South Africa Angola, 24 April 2018 Sandton International Convention Centre, Sandton,
460 Soutpansberg Road, Rietondale, Pretoria, 0084, Republic of South Africa 26 July 2018
Tel: +27 12 351 1000, www.dirco.gov.za • Official remarks by Lindiwe Sisulu, Minister of
International Relations and Cooperation and • Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa on the
© The Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO)
Outgoing Chairperson of the SADC Council of occasion of the Post-10th BRICS Summit Media
Prepared by Branch: Public Diplomacy. Published by DIRCO.
Ministers, at the Official Opening of the Meeting of Briefing, 27 July 2018, Sandton
2 3
CHAPTER 3: • Statement by President Danny Faure of the
SOUTH AFRICA AS MEMBER OF THE UNITED Seychelles
NATIONS SECURITY COUNCIL (UNSC) 2019 • Speech by President Paul Kagame of Rwanda
– 2020, THE UNVEILING OF THE MANDELA
STATUE, THE NELSON MANDELA PEACE • Statement by Prime Minister Andrew Holness of
SUMMIT AND THE UN GENERAL ASSEMBLY Jamaica
• Media remarks by the Minister of International • Speech by President Muhammadu Buhari of
Relations and Cooperation, Lindiwe Sisulu, following Nigeria
South Africa’s election to the Non-Permanent Seat
in the UNSC, 8 June 2018 • Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa to the
UN General Assembly, United Nations, New York,
• Statement by President Cyril Ramaphosa following United States of America, 25 September 2018
the UNSC elections, 8 June 2018
• Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the CHAPTER 4:
unveiling of the Nelson Mandela Statue, UN SOUTH AFRICA AS CO-CHAIR OF THE FORUM ON
General Assembly, 24 September 2018, New York, CHINA-AFRICA COOPERATION (FOCAC)
United States of America • Welcoming address by Lindiwe Sisulu, Minister
• Political Declaration adopted at the Nelson Mandela of International Relations and Cooperation, at the
Peace Summit Opening Session of the Seventh Ministerial Meeting
of FOCAC, Beijing, China, 2 September 2018
• Statement by María Fernanda Espinosa Garcés,
President of the 73rd Session of the UN General • Remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the
Assembly FOCAC, Beijing, China, 3 September 2018
• Remarks by António Guterres, Secretary-General
of the UN CHAPTER 5:
HEADS OF MISSION CONFERENCE
• Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa
• Address by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the South
• Statement by President Miguel Diaz Canel of Cuba African Heads of Mission Conference, OR Tambo
Building, Pretoria, 23 October 2018
• Speech by Taoiseach Leo Varadkar, Prime Minister
of Ireland
CHAPTER 6:
• Speech by Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern of New
SOUTH AFRICA’S CHAIRSHIP OF THE INDIAN
Zealand
OCEAN RIM ASSOCIATION (IORA)
• Speech by the Prime Minister of Greece, Alexis • Opening remarks and country statement by
Tsipras Lindiwe Sisulu, Minister of International Relations
and Cooperation, at the IORA Council of Ministers
• Address by Maithripala Sirisena, President of Sri
Meeting, Durban, 2 November 2018
Lanka
• Speech by Prime Minister Frank Bainimarama of Fiji CHAPTER 7:
• Remarks by the Prime Minister of Canada, Justin SOUTH AFRICA INVESTMENT CONFERENCE
Trudeau • Opening address by President Cyril Ramaphosa at
the South Africa Investment Conference, Sandton
• Speech by Professor Arthur Peter Mutharika,
Convention Centre, Johannesburg, 26 October 2018
President of the Republic of Malawi
H M
AM
R T BO
Continuing the Legacy:
O
Working for a Just and Peaceful World RY
IN
NT
SE
RV
ICE OU
OF OUR C
South Africa – Member of the United Nations
Sout
uncil
Heads of Mission Conference
hA
Co
Security Council 2019 – 2020
fr i
ity
ca
in
2018
ur
th c
e Se
I N D I A N O C E A N R I M A S S O C I AT I O N Unit
ed Nation
s
INTRODUCTION
This year marks the centenary of the world icon be achieved when you stretch human endeavour and
Nelson Mandela. This is one year in which we should make possible that which seems unattainable.
once again use the space created by Madiba to
leapfrog into a future that we all dreamt of. It is an We want South Africa to be once again a moral
especially important year for us as we invite the world compass and a voice of reason in a world increasingly
to focus on the example we have set for the rest of overcome with selfish, narrow interests. We want to be
mankind. We need to drive this celebration of the the hope for all in times of despair.
man who not only led us into this democracy, but
one who captured the world’s imagination on what Our foreign policy has evolved over many years,
is possible. We had the most fertile ground on which crafted by Oliver Tambo as he sensitised the world
to build further on the immense work done by Oliver about the struggle of South Africa; and crystallised
Tambo in our international relations. Mandela picked and given expression by Nelson Mandela as he
up the baton and charted our foreign policy in the put South Africa firmly on the international stage.
new dispensation and we remember him for what he All of this is summarised very aptly in the African
bequeathed to us: freedom, peace and forgiveness. National Congress’ (ANC) 54th National Conference
And the world opened its arms to us. Declaration: “We remain committed to the founding
values of the struggle for a humane, just, equitable,
We once were a giant in the world and our reputation democratic and free world”. We have over time been
was well known, because of what South Africa consolidating it and it boils down to this: a better life for
represented. The world was richer for having given all, a better life for all of us equally as South Africans,
us support and for us having given them the miracle a better life for our continent, and a better life for the
of 1994. In Mandela’s memory and in his honour, we world, embedded in a desire to create and preserve
have a responsibility to regain that stature that he left peace.
for us. That stature that allowed us to punch above our
weight and succeed. We’ll regain that stature and put Our Constitution determines that our foreign policy
all out efforts in making sure that we make the world a must be driven by seven major principles:
better place for all. We should not be in a world where
our children will inherit the ruins of Syria. Our children 1. fundamentally transform and achieve sustainable
should not live in fear of extremist militants. Our growth of the economy to empower the people
children should not die at the hands of heavy-handed and create a better life for all
soldiers. Our children should not die of poverty. 2. deal with the legacies of apartheid colonialism
3. maintain the stability and security of South Africa,
We are faced with major external challenges: poverty, including its constitutional order and institutions
where an Oxfam Report indicates that eight billionaires 4. develop a peaceful, prosperous and integrated
own the same wealth as half of the poorest countries southern Africa
in the world; extremism, resulting in an increase in 5. develop a stable and prosperous African continent,
defence spending, abuse or disregard of international which is not marginalised in world affairs
law and the unravelling of the global governance 6. resolve conflicts by negotiations
system; the weakening of diplomacy; the increasing 7. develop a multipolar just and equitable world
tendency of some countries to reduce the complex order.
and interrelated problems of the world to narrow
national interests; and a global crisis of leadership South Africa’s approach to and implementation of our
and governance, resulting in corruption, abuse of foreign policy must be based on an understanding of
state power and resources. the current regional and global political and economic
realities.
Our domestic policies are changing very rapidly
and we have to respond by reconfiguring our foreign Our contribution and support to the President in
policy. We want to usher in a new era where South implementing our country’s international programme
Africa can lift itself out of poverty and inequality and seeks to practically change the lives of our people for
regain its stature in the world as a model of what can the better. We remain guided by our domestic priorities
6 7
and aspirations in the formulation and consequent the participation and enhanced cooperation of the BRICS Outreach programme with African leaders in Consequently, in 1994, South Africa’s total trade in
implementation of an independent and democratic regional private sector in the implementation of attendance and the BRICS Plus interaction. the region stood at approximately R5 billion for the
foreign policy, which is premised on the values of the SADC Regional Industrialisation Strategy and Middle East and R40 billon for Asia. In 2014, this
our Constitution. Our work, however, recognises the Roadmap. With regard to the Indian Ocean Rim Association figure grew rapidly and substantially to R760 billion
importance of improving the living conditions of our (IORA), South Africa assumed the Chair of the for Asia and R116 billion for the Middle East.
fellow Africans on the continent as well as creating In a similar vein, our objectives of regional integration association for the period October 2017 until
conditions for human fulfilment across the globe. within SADC are also intertwined with our objectives October 2019. This provides us with an opportunity We therefore committed to advance this objective
of the African Union (AU) and enhancing the African to build on the Jakarta Summit outcomes and propel once provided with the opportunity to serve on the
In essence, our aspirations, which are encapsulated Agenda. The adoption and launch of the Continental the implementation of the IORA Action Plan (2017 United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent
in the National Development Plan Vision 2030, Free Trade Area, as well as the signing of the Kigali – 2021). Importantly, we focussed and will continue member from 2019 to 2020 as endorsed by the AU
provide an overarching vision that guides our foreign Declaration, took us a step closer towards a regional to do so, on enhancing the institutional mechanisms in January 2018.
policy imperatives and our international relations and continentally integrated economy. necessary to advance important priorities for
programme. South Africa and the region. These include but are We believe in a global system that has been
Our region is stable although we shall continue not limited to women’s economic empowerment, developed and structured to ensure that never again
Suffice to state, that our purview of work is increasingly to impress on partners and work with them to maritime safety and security, the Blue Economy and will we experience a war. This system is established
challenging, considering the faster dynamism of the consolidate democracy and peace for development. tourism. to ensure that we never again slide to the levels of
international environment, which has in the recent We have accordingly discharged our SADC destruction we have had over so many years.
past witnessed efforts to entrench protectionism and sanctioned mediation responsibility in Lesotho, which Our bilateral relations with countries in the region,
elitism in the era of the Fourth Industrial Revolution. culminated in the elections which were declared free on the continent, the Global South and the North The fundamentals of our foreign policy are based
While the said era has its advantages, we cannot shy and fair. continue to grow and strengthen within the difficult on human rights, peace, equality and freedom from
away from the reality that it has demonstrated the economic climate. Notably, we managed to place oppression, racism and poverty. This is our focus; first
potential to further alienate the majority of the poor Complimentarily, we witnessed the establishment of Africa’s development agenda in the G20 purview and foremost on the African continent. We remain an
worldwide and for that reason we must proactively the AU Peace Fund during the reporting period and of work during the reporting period. We have also important player on the African continent and our role
manage its effects. are confident that this will support African solutions impressed upon our partners in the world the has been aptly described as pivotal, and we intend
and strengthen peace mechanisms of the AU Peace need to work together to create a conducive world to keep it that way.
We can only leverage its opportunities and avert and Security Council. We believe that stronger environment for humanity to thrive.
compounding the persistent economic hardships by continental mechanisms are indeed required to The renaissance that we dreamed of is still possible
investing in our populaces and ensuring that Africa is ensure that the aspirational goal of “silencing the Our bilateral relations have served as a key driver of in our lifetime. In fact, the African Renaissance
not left behind as the digital era further evolves. guns” by 2020 is realised. Economic Diplomacy and yielded tangible dividends remains a key objective of the ANC, confirmed at its
for the South African economy. The southern African 54th National Conference. However, our importance
We must also be conscious that our continent and the We are not just an African country considering our region continued to be of great importance to as a role player depends on getting ourselves out of
region will progress towards improved manufacturing strong roots and orientation as a country of the South Africa, not only politically, but more so in the the problems that surround us right now. A country
capacities and reduce its dependence on exporting South. Our partnerships and formations within South- area of trade and economic development. In 2016, mired in its own problems can hardly expect to make
raw materials only to buy furnished products later South relations are therefore historic and as such South Africa’s trade with the region amounted to any impact on the world stage.
at higher prices. This perpetuation of neo-colonial remains important. Thus, to furthering our economic R336 billion, which is estimated to be more that 70%
relations undermines our continental and regional imperatives, the Brazil, Russia, India, China and of the total trade with Africa. Our potential to influence for good is enormous,
efforts to bolster prosperity through product value South Africa (BRICS) countries continued to be the based on our history. We can continue to be the moral
and increased intra-Africa trade. leading sources of foreign direct investment (FDI) Western Europe accounted for about 25% of South compass of the world and we need to. We continue
among emerging investor countries. Flows from Africa’s total global trade in 2016 and remained to fight against injustice, because we have to. We
We, however, must double our efforts to counter these five economies rose from US$7billion in 2000 South Africa’s largest source of FDI. The United who have suffered so much, can ill afford suffering in
the effects of an unpredictable and economically to US$145 billion in 2012, accounting for 10% of the States of America (USA) and Canada continued to any part of the world.
sluggish environment. Thus, we remain cognisant world total. be important trade and investment partners for South
of the fact that the Southern African Development Africa, with 863 companies from the region trading A better South Africa, a better Africa, in a better
Community (SADC) is our immediate and biggest We assumed Chairship of BRICS on 1 January in South Africa, creating over 120 000 employment world!
trade partner of which our future is intertwined with 2018 and will conclude this role on 31 December opportunities. South Africa is also the USA and
that of the region and the continent. 2018. As such, the 10th BRICS Summit was chaired Canada’s most important commercial partner in
by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the Sandton Africa.
As such, we utilised our Chairship of SADC for the International Convention Centre from 25 to 27 July
period 2017/18 under the theme, “Partnering with the 2018 under the theme, “BRICS in Africa: Collaboration South Africa’s presence in the Asia and the Middle
Private Sector in Developing Industry and Regional for Inclusive Growth and Shared Prosperity in East consisted of six missions in 1994. In 2014, South Lindiwe Sisulu
Value Chains”, to continue to bolster economic growth the 4th Industrial Revolution”. All BRICS leaders Africa had diplomatic relations with all 57 countries in Minister of International Relations and
in the region, with a dedicated focus on harnessing participated. President Ramaphosa also chaired the the region, with 32 missions. Cooperation
8 9
CHAPTER 1
SOUTH AFRICA’S CHAIRSHIP OF THE SOUTHERN AFRICAN
DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY (SADC) 2017 – 2018
10 11
CHAPTER 1 I am also glad to report that during the year, drafts for communicable and non-communicable diseases
SOUTH AFRICA’S CHAIRSHIP OF THE SOUTHERN AFRICAN DEVELOPMENT COMMUNITY of the SADC Regional Mining Vision and Protocol within the region. Having completed this important
(SADC) 2017–2018 on Industry were prepared and consultations were study in the fiscal year 2018/19, the Secretariat will
held with relevant stakeholders. The Regional coordinate the development of a five-year SADC
Opening remarks by Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax, SADC Executive Secretary, Mining Vision will optimise the benefits from mineral Pharmaceutical Manufacturing Action Plan.
on the occasion of the Official Opening of the SADC Council of Ministers, extraction through extended mineral beneficiation
OR Tambo Building, Pretoria, 26 March 2018 and the development of strong economic linkages In relation to HIV and AIDS, it may be recalled
between the mining sector and other economic that the funding from the Global Fund towards the
Honourable Ms Lindiwe Sisulu, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of the Republic of South sectors, especially manufacturing. The Protocol Cross-Border Wellness Initiative came to an end in
Africa and Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers, on Industry will provide for a supportive policy December 2017. Consequently, member states are
Honourable Ministers, environment for the implementation of the SADC expected to take over all the 32 wellness sites that
Chairperson of the SADC Standing Committee of Senior Officials, Industrialisation Strategy across sectors. have been established. The sustainability of these
SADC Deputy Executive Secretaries, sites is imperative to ensure that the investment
Senior Officials from SADC Member States, Recognising the pivotal role of the private sector in the gained over the past four years to mitigate the impact
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, achievement of the region’s development objectives, of HIV and AIDS on long-distance truck drivers,
SADC Secretariat Staff, during the year, the Secretariat continued to work sex workers and affected communities around the
Representatives of the Media, with private-sector organisations in member states border areas is maintained. Allow me to use this
Invited Guests, to finalise the development of an effective public- opportunity to call upon member states to take up,
Ladies and Gentlemen, private engagement mechanism. This will ensure and prioritise this critical initiative.
that our programmes and activities are informed by
the needs and experiences of the private sector. The Chairperson,
draft mechanism was presented and deliberated by
Allow me to begin by congratulating Honourable in the Department of International Relations and the Industrial Development Forum in February 2018, It is also worth reporting that, working through
Lindiwe Sisulu for her appointment as Minister of Cooperation of South Africa and the SADC National and is due to be finalised during 2018/19. various project-preparation facilities, the Secretariat
International Relations and Cooperation of the Contact Point. Our deepest condolences, and may continued to engage the private sector through
Republic of South Africa and thus, Chairperson of the Almighty continue to comfort them, and rest in In our continued efforts to consolidate the SADC public-private dialogues, including through
the SADC Council of Ministers. We look forward to peace the soul of our late father. Free Trade Area and strengthen the financial sector, Southern African Business Forum thematic working
working with you and I have no doubt that in you, we the region continued with the implementation of the groups and the World Economic Forum (WEF).
shall find an able steward who will continue guiding Chairperson, Honourable Ministers, cross-border payment system through the SADC Through such engagements, we have been able to
the SADC region in its transformative agenda to Integrated Regional Settlement System (SIRESS), identify projects that have the potential for private-
industrialise. May I also take this opportunity to The main objective of this Council of Ministers which currently settles transactions using the South sector investment or public-private partnerships,
express our gratitude to the Government of the Meeting is to receive progress on the implementation African Rand. To date, over a million transactions, including in the energy, transport and water sectors,
Republic of South Africa for hosting the meeting of of the 2017/18 plan, and to consider the proposed representing R4,09 trillion have been settled using out of which seven have been submitted to the
the Council of Ministers, and to the people of South plan and budget for 2018/19. In this regard, allow the system. In order to ensure that the system is WEF Africa Sustainable Development Investment
Africa for your hospitality and the traditional warm me Honourable Ministers to present a few milestones inclusive and caters for all the currencies in the Programme. The Sustainable Development
welcome. achieved during the year under review. Tremendous region, a multicurrency and low-value framework Investment Programme members are committed
progress has been made in a number of areas in was developed during the period under review. The to mobilising blended finance worth US$100 billion
Allow me to also congratulate Honourable Domingos our quest to regional integration. In line with the 37th multicurrency platform will also have the US Dollar as for projects supporting sustainable and climate
Augusto, Minister of External Relations of Angola; SADC Summit theme of “Partnering with the Private an additional currency of settlement and is expected resilient infrastructure programmes and projects.
Honourable José Condungua Pacheco, Minister of Sector in Developing Industry and Regional Value to be operational by October 2018.
Foreign Affairs of Mozambique; Honourable Joseph Chains”, value chains in areas that were profiled in I am also happy to report that in February 2018, the
Malanji, Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic 2016/17, namely: mining, pharmaceuticals and agro- Chairperson, Honourable Ministers, Secretariat signed an aide memoire with the African
of Zambia; and Honourable Dr Lieutenant General processing sectors, were identified. The priority value Development Bank, where the bank has committed
(Rtd) Sibusiso B Moyo, Minister of Foreign Affairs and chains identified in the following subsectors are: A healthy and vibrant human capital is a key enabler to support SADC in a number of areas, including the
International Trade of the Republic of Zimbabwe; for leather, soya, aquaculture, iron and steel, copper, of industrialisation; as such, strengthening the identification and categorisation of priority bankable
their appointments, and welcome them as members cement and ARV manufacturing. In the coming manufacturing base for essential medical supplies projects from SADC’s Regional Infrastructure
of the Council of Ministers. We also welcome and financial year, detailed mapping and feasibility and commodities in the region is critical for human Development Master Plan (RIDMP); development
congratulate the Comoros for being accepted to join studies on each of these identified value chains will capital development and health. I am glad to report of financial instruments and frameworks that
SADC as the 16th member of SADC. be undertaken, based on which bankable projects that a feasibility study on Regional Manufacturing of are relevant to SADC regional projects such as
will be developed. Medicines and Health Commodities was completed infrastructure bonds, partial risk guarantees,
On a sad note, the SADC Secretariat has received during the year. This study will facilitate the setting up of insurance guarantees and partial credit guarantees
with sorrow the news on the passing of the May I thank the SADC Chairperson, the Republic mechanisms to facilitate manufacturing of the much- for use in member states; development of bankable
father to Mr Sandile Schalk, the Chief Director of South Africa, for spearheading this progress. needed generic medicines and health commodities value chains; development of SADC economic
12 13
corridors aimed at supporting infrastructure projects that the region has put in place the necessary My deepest gratitude also goes to my Deputy Chairperson, Honourable Ministers,
to facilitate regional value chains; and development structures and mechanisms that enhance our Executive Secretaries, SADC management and all
of insurance to mitigate and address the impacts of cooperation and ensure peace, security and staff at the Secretariat for the support, dedication With these few remarks, it is my honour and privilege
climate change-related risks. May I at this juncture, political stability in the region. and hard work, which have contributed to the to invite the Chairperson of Council to deliver her
recognise the presence of Ms Moono Muputola, achievements that the Secretariat has been able opening remarks, Madam Chairperson, the floor is
the bank’s Director for Regional Integration and her Honourable Ministers, to record during the year under review. Steve Jobs yours.
team. May I also express our sincere appreciation once said, “The only way to do great work is to love I thank you very much!
to the bank for its continued support to SADC. These are a few highlights of the year under review; what you do”. As we begin 2018/19, let us keep the Muito obrigado!
a comprehensive report of achievements recorded momentum and maintain the Team Spirit. Merci beacoup!
Chairperson, Honourable Ministers, in the year will be presented during your meeting. Ke a leboga!
Asanteni sana!
Implementation of the SADC priorities requires Chairperson,
sustainable sources of funding. To this effect, the
Secretariat, in collaboration with member states, The region continues to be affected by poor weather
has developed a Resource Mobilisation Framework, and adverse climatic conditions that continue
Welcome remarks by the Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers, Lindiwe Sisulu,
and a progress report will be presented and to stifle growth of the agriculture sector with a
Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa, 26 March 2018
discussed during this meeting. One of the critical negative impact on food security. The region has
aspects of the Resource Mobilisation Framework just experienced a poor rainfall season in 2017/18.
Your Excellencies, Ministers and Deputy Ministers,
is the identification of innovative and sustainable Notwithstanding, some notable improvements
SADC Executive Secretary, Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax,
financial instruments. In this regard, the Secretariat in January and February, the 2018 agricultural
SADC Deputy Executive Secretaries,
is working with the African Development Bank production will be negatively affected, and result in
Heads of Senior Officials’ Delegations,
(AfDB) to help develop these instruments. So far, food insecurity for many households. Furthermore,
Officials from our Member States,
the AfDB has pledged to support the Secretariat the region has also experienced the outbreak of the
Officials from the SADC Secretariat,
to operationalise phase one of the SADC Regional fall armyworm that has had devastating impacts on
Members of the Media here present,
Development Fund. cereal production, particularly in Namibia, Malawi,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
Mozambique, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe,
During the year, the Secretariat has also continued and is likely to result in food shortages, particularly It is my singular honour and privilege to welcome you of Defence, I always found our SADC meetings
to collaborate with international cooperating in the staple maize crop in these countries. These all to this, the SADC Council of Ministers’ Meeting. focussed, result-orientated and very fulfilling.
partners, and notable progress in this area developments emphasise the need to have a robust As I welcome you, allow me to extend a special word
includes programming under the 11th Cycle of and resilient agricultural sector. It is for this reason of welcome to the following foreign ministers who Ladies and Gentlemen,
the European Development Fund (EDF 11), where that our industrialisation agenda has prioritised are, like me, attending the Council Meeting for the
project identification in the identified areas that development of value chains, in among others, first time: I believe it is important to start from the beginning.
include trade and industrialisation, agriculture, agro-processing, supported by other mechanisms What is the beginning? The beginning is the founding
trade facilitation, migration and peace and security to complement household food security. Our 1. Hon Minister, Mr Manuel Augusto of the Republic Treaty establishing our own Southern African
have been completed and the related action plans cooperation in this area remains critical. of Angola Development Community (SADC). The 1992 SADC
approved. Under the EDF 11, the European Union 2. Hon Minister, Mr José Pacheco of the Republic Treaty correctly outlines foundational principles
has agreed to extend US$90 million for a period of Chairperson, Honourable Ministers, of Mozambique under which we as member states ought to act. For
four years. 3. Hon Minister, Mr Joseph Malanji of the Republic purposes of emphasis, it is important that I list these
Our focus for the financial year 2018/19 as will be of Zambia principles:
Chairperson, Honourable Ministers, presented during your meeting remains on our 4. Hon Minister, Retired Lieutenant General
priorities, namely: industrialisation and market Dr Sibusiso Moyo of the Republic of Zimbabwe. 1. sovereign equality of all member states
Political stability, peace and security remain a integration, infrastructure development to leverage 2. solidarity, peace and security
key enabler for deepening regional economic industrialisation, and peace and security. I am also pleased to welcome to the SADC family, 3. human rights, democracy and rule of law
integration. During the period under review, focus our 16th new member, the Union of Comoros, 4. equity, balance and mutual benefit
was placed on the facilitation and consolidation As I conclude, I wish to thank the Council of Ministers represented by the Honourable Minister, Mr Souf 5. peaceful settlement of disputes.
of mediation, conflict prevention and preventive for the continued guidance, and the member states Mohamed El-Amin, Minister of Foreign Affairs and
diplomacy initiatives. Following the attainment of full for supporting the Secretariat by availing the International Cooperation. These are the principles that guide us all the time in
operational capability in 2015 with the conduct of the needed resources in a timely manner. May I also our journey towards regional economic integration.
Amani Africa II Exercise, the SADC Standby Force express our gratitude to our strategic partners I hope that those of us who are new to the club will We gather here this morning to think and strategise
deployed in November 2017, a multidimensional and international cooperation partners for their find this meeting refreshing and fulfilling. I can at together on how best and how fast we can improve
contingent mission in the Kingdom of Lesotho with technical and financial support in our development least attest that in my previous engagements with the the lives of all our peoples. We have clear and
the objective of supporting Lesotho in restoring efforts. council as the Minister of Intelligence and Minister common objectives towards regional economic
political and security stability. This is clear evidence
14 15
integration and sustainable development. Our Development Plan, the Regional Industrialisation We pledge our continued support as it delivers on I welcome you once more and trust that you will find
experience in Kigali was truly uplifting. We should Strategy and Roadmap 2015 – 2063, the Strategic its annual work programme and mandate and to the arrangements put at your disposal conducive to
therefore continuously seek to unlock our regional Indicative Plan of the Organ and the Regional strengthen its governance and institutional capacity our successful deliberations.
potential and opportunities to effectively address the Infrastructure Development Master Plan. in order to enhance its effectiveness.
core issues of unemployment, underdevelopment Thank you.
and poverty alleviation and contribute fully to the In our pursuit of a common SADC future, it is Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Merci.
upliftment of the continent. clear that in our region there is a critical need for Obrigada.
industrial development underpinned by a sound We have an extensive agenda ahead of us. Let us
Ladies and Gentlemen, infrastructure. As SADC Chair, South Africa is working accord the work before us the required attention and
towards ensuring the practical implementation of the provide the necessary political direction on the way
I am exceptionally pleased that this Council Meeting SADC Industrialisation Plan as adopted by the SADC forward.
takes place in the year that we celebrate the Extra-Ordinary Summit in March 2017. As a result, South
centenary year of the birth of one of the fathers of Africa’s theme for her Chairship year, titled: “Partnering
our nation, Mr Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela. To our with the Private Sector in Developing Industry and
people and I am sure to many in the region, he will Regional Value Chains”, further emphasises the
always be affectionately known as Madiba! importance of regional industrialisation. Opening remarks by President Cyril Ramaphosa during the SADC Double Troika Summit,
Luanda, Angola, 24 April 2018
Former President Mandela stands out as one of the Industrialisation remains a core prerequisite for
most notable leaders of our liberation struggle who prosperity in the region and has to be achieved Your Excellency João Lourenço, President of the Republic of Angola and the Chairperson of the Organ on
mobilised international solidarity against apartheid through a strong partnership with the private Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation,
and contributed to establishing and shaping a post- sector. It is therefore clear that all SADC members Your Majesty, King Mswati III of the Kingdom of eSwatini and Outgoing Chair of SADC,
apartheid democratic South Africa. As we celebrate should focus on the need to strengthen the region’s Your Excellency, Dr Hage Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia and Incoming Chair of SADC,
the centenary of Madiba, we draw inspiration from capabilities, both inside and outside of government, Your Excellency, Edgar Lungu, President of the Republic of Zambia and Incoming Chair of the Organ,
his exceptional wisdom, humility and resilience and in order to advance regional industrialisation. It is our Honourable Augustine Mahiga, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation, representing His
ability to rise above his circumstances and chart the belief that SADC governments should identify priority Excellency John Pombe Magufuli, President of the United Republic of Tanzania,
path towards a free, non-racial democracy. He was value chains and take steps to attract the private Honourable Ministers here present,
a true international statesman and we will continue sector into these specific sectors. Your Excellency, Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax, SADC Executive Secretary,
to draw invaluable lessons from his outstanding Senior Government Officials,
leadership and compassion, for decades to come. As part of our regional strategy, South Africa is also Members of Staff of the SADC Secretariat,
working on a set of deliverables, which will focus on Ladies and Gentlemen,
When South Africa joined the SADC community some high-impact cross-border projects in order Members of the Media,
in 1998, President Mandela shared with us the to support manufacturing and the creation of new
following words: “Our vision for the SADC region is regional value chains. We will report back to the next Good morning to you all. The political and security challenges in the Kingdom
therefore the highest possible degree of economic SADC Summit in August this year on progress in this of Lesotho, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC)
integration, consistent with our socio-economic and respect. I wish to take this opportunity to express my and the Republic of Madagascar correctly continue
political reality. Our tasks as governments are to appreciation and thanks to His Excellency, President to occupy our attention. The timely convening of this
provide the environment that will release the creative Our vision for our Chairship is to provide for João Lourenço, Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, summit demonstrates our commitment to assisting
abilities of our people to produce wealth to create ourselves policy direction and for all of us an Defence and Security Cooperation, the Government these member states in their search for a lasting
development”. enabling environment for a sustainable programme and people of the Republic of Angola for the warm political and security solution.
that prioritises the preparation of high-impact cross- welcome, hospitality and courtesies accorded to us
As we enter our 26th year as a SADC family, we border projects that are pragmatic, enhance skills, since our arrival in Luanda. Angola has a special In the Kingdom of Lesotho, we have practically
must continuously reflect on our progress. Our create jobs and boost regional trade. place in the hearts and minds of the people of our demonstrated our resolve in bringing about stability
objectives in SADC are informed by the SADC region. through the work of the SADC Facilitator, deployment
Common Agenda, which seeks to advance peace, As indicated, we have all committed to improving the of the Oversight Committee and the deployment of
stability and sustainable development in our region. quality of life for our people to advance sustainable Your Excellencies, a SADC Preventive Mission. While acknowledging
It is important to note that the political and security economic development. To this end, we have a some progress on the implementation of the SADC
situation in the region remains stable, though there long journey to travel and we cannot be found to be We meet here this morning on the occasion of the decisions and the submission of a Roadmap on
are some political and security challenges which the wanting or to have failed. It is therefore fundamental Extraordinary Session of the SADC Double Troika Reforms, we nonetheless urge the Government, the
region must continue to address. that we unleash the appropriate resources and make essentially to review the political and security opposition parties and the people of the Kingdom
a concerted effort to work together towards the situation in the region. We note with great satisfaction to start the reform process in earnest. In this regard,
As you are aware, the SADC Common Agenda has SADC our people deserve and a SADC we can be that our region, notwithstanding a few political and we advise the people of Lesotho to prioritise the
also guided us to develop economic blueprints proud of. Our gratitude to the SADC Secretariat, ever security challenges in a few sister countries, remains constitutional reforms and complete this process in
such as the Revised Regional Indicative Strategic so passionate about their work. stable. the shortest period of time. Constitutional reforms
16 17
remain a cornerstone towards political stability that On Madagascar, there is certainly an urgent need fresh air – characteristics that will certainly make for should not only be in terms of quantities, but also
will constitute the edifice of all other sectoral reforms, for our organisation to make a timely intervention, fruitful meetings. quality, based on effective and efficient systems,
including security. given the current unfolding situation. We should not while being mindful of the comparative advantages
allow the country to slide back to political instability, For South Africa, August is Women’s Month and every of member states.
Having said that, let me commend the Preventive particularly now that it is preparing for elections. We year during this time, we remember the sacrifices
Mission and the Oversight Committee for the sterling call on all stakeholders in the country to exercise and the contribution of women in the struggle for a Honourable Ministers,
work done thus far in their cooperation with the restraint and have the best interests of the country democratic and free nation. At regional level, women
Government and the people of the Kingdom of at heart. continue to enhance our shared vision of attaining We all know that for a long time regional industrial
Lesotho and all other stakeholders. a stable, peaceful, secure and prosperous SADC growth, particularly in the manufacturing sector,
Your Excellencies, community. has been less impressive, and our economies are
On the DRC, we note the progress made in the insufficiently diversified. We have, for a long time,
implementation of the December 2016 Political Let me conclude by wishing those member states Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Ladies and relied on very few primary commodity exports,
Agreement as demonstrated by the National that are going to hold elections this year success as Gentlemen, making our member states extremely vulnerable to
Independent Electoral Commission publicising the they prepare for the elections. price shocks.
Electoral Calendar, voter registration and the general When South Africa was afforded the opportunity
preparations for the December 2018 elections. The I would like to thank you, President Lourenço, for to Chair SADC, taking over from the Kingdom of It is now time that we diversify our economies,
people of the DRC deserve support in their quest to convening this important summit and also wish the eSwatini, we resolved to build on the initiatives that increase the participation of member states in
find a lasting solution to the challenges facing their summit productive deliberations. It is my pleasure were started at Victoria Falls, were taken to Gaborone regional value chains and promote value addition.
country. therefore to open this Extraordinary Double Troika and later to Lozitha. We must collectively work towards accelerating
Summit. economic integration processes that will promote
We also call upon all stakeholders in the DRC to We needed to maintain the focus on industrial specialisation and the development of regional
work together as they prepare for these important I thank you. development, promotion of regional value chains value chains.
elections. We equally express our concern about the and value addition in the region. In this regard, the
continued security instability in some parts of the theme for our tenure of office, “Partnering with the I am delighted that we have progressively put in
country. We wish to assure the Government and the Private Sector in Developing Industry and Regional place policies and institutions that will promote
people of the DRC of our continued support. Value Chains”, was chosen with the full realisation the adoption of technological know-how, ensuring
that our goals can only be met if we focus on strong modernisation of production systems, as well
and meaningful partnerships with the private sector, as embracing skills development, science and
which is part of the engine for sustainable economic technology. To further realise these objectives, we
growth. will have to continue strengthening financial systems
Official remarks by Lindiwe Sisulu, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation and that would facilitate availability and movement of
Outgoing Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers, at the Official Opening of the Meeting Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Ladies and capital. Above all, we will continue to ensure that the
of the SADC Council of Ministers, 13 August 2018, Windhoek, Namibia Gentlemen, region has well-developed infrastructure to facilitate
trade and the easy movement of goods and services.
Honourable Ms Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwa, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of International Relations and From the time that the historic decision, to frontload
Cooperation of the Republic of Namibia, and the Incoming Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers, industrialisation in the regional development Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Ladies and
Honourable Ministers, framework, was taken in August 2014 by our heads Gentlemen,
SADC Senior Officials, of state and government at Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe,
Your Excellencies, Ambassadors, High Commissioners and Members of the Diplomatic Corps, we have collectively and tirelessly worked to ensure In order to optimally achieve the objectives as set out
Your Excellency, Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax, Executive Secretary of SADC, that the dream becomes a reality through the in our work programme, we need to further strengthen
Heads of Continental and Regional Organisations, implementation of our various blueprints. and cultivate private-sector involvement. The role
Heads of International Organisations, of our governments is to put in place policies and
Colleagues from the Media, Not only has our community produced the best initiatives that would create an enabling environment
Distinguished Invited Guests, strategy for our region and the first of its kind, the for the private sector to grow.
Ladies and Gentlemen, SADC Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap, we
have also taken concerted efforts to ensure that We are catalysts, something which should be
I feel extremely delighted to stand here this morning, Before I go any further, permit me to express my we are able to build productive capacities within appreciated by member states, so that our investment,
to say a few words before I hand over the mantle to my sincere gratitude to the Government and people of member states. trade and industrial policies are able to shape
successor and dear sister, Honourable Ms Netumbo Namibia for their warm reception and hospitality, as incentives to attract private-sector involvement. It is
Nandi-Ndaitwa, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister well as the excellent facilities that have been put at Through this strategy, we recognise that trade for this reason, that we have taken a very proactive
of International Relations and Cooperation of the our disposal since our arrival in this historical city liberalisation can meaningfully contribute towards approach to engage the private sector in the SADC
Republic of Namibia, and the Incoming Chairperson of Windhoek. This is, indeed, a “place by streams” sustainable and equitable development while regional integration agenda. In this regard, efforts
of the SADC Council of Ministers. that has several fountains of invigorating waters and meeting the goals for poverty alleviation. Production are underway to develop a cooperation framework for
18 19private-sector participation of businesses operating We will, therefore, continue to guard our hard-won Maiden speech by President Cyril Ramaphosa at the 38th SADC Summit,
in SADC. freedom by ensuring that member states continue Windhoek, Namibia, 17 August 2018
to adhere to good governance and the rule of
To this end, the SADC Industrialisation Week, recently law, and ensuring that regular national democratic Your Excellency, Dr Hage Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia and Chair of SADC,
held from 30 July to 1 August 2018 in Windhoek, elections are held. We remain seized with political Your Majesty, King Mswati III of the Kingdom of eSwatini,
has been running for the third year successfully. developments in the Democratic Republic of Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
The event provides a useful platform for private- Congo, the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Republic Your Excellency, President Paul Kagame of the Republic of Rwanda and Chairperson of the African Union,
sector companies domiciled in SADC member of Madagascar, in order to find lasting solutions to Your Excellency, Mr Moussa Mahamat Faki, Chairperson of the African Union Commission,
states to showcase their products produced as a achieve peace and stability. Honourable Ministers,
result of regional value chains and the promotion SADC Executive Secretary,
of value additions. It is also an excellent platform for Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Ladies and Excellencies, Ambassadors and High Commissioners,
engagement and continues to foster opportunities Gentlemen, Senior Officials,
for intra-regional trade and investment. Distinguished Guests,
In conclusion, let me once again express my profound Ladies and Gentlemen,
As we move forward, there is more work to be done on appreciation on behalf of my Government and the
SADC industrial development initiatives. We therefore people of the Republic of South Africa. It has indeed It is a great honour to be welcomed here as part of the Regional Infrastructure Development Master Plan
need to prioritise trade-facilitation bottlenecks such as been a great honour and privilege to steer the affairs the SADC family. and the Strategic Indicative Plan of the Organ.
inadequate infrastructure and customs procedures, of the Council of Ministers. The cooperation and
as well as weak logistics systems which raise support I received from honourable ministers and the Our bonds of friendship and solidarity go back to Together, these plans are critical for deepening
trade costs and hinder the ease of doing business. SADC Secretariat, led by Dr Stergomena Lawrence the formation of the Frontline States, whose resolve regional integration among SADC member states
Transport costs and transit delays in southern Africa Tax, gave me and my team the energy to drive our to strengthen historical, social and cultural relations and ensuring the sustainable development of our
are reported to be particularly higher than in most SADC work agenda. among our people continues to this day. region.
other regions, and have a potential to reverse the
gains in regional industrial development. As I hand over the Chairship to Namibia, I take It was these formidable bonds that led to the Our priorities are inextricably linked to the Continental
comfort that my dear sister, Honourable Ms Netumbo destruction of the apartheid regime and ended its Agenda, and in particular the implementation of the
Without resource mobilisation, which provides Nandi-Ndaitwa, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister destabilisation of the region. African Union’s Agenda 2063.
options for funding our programmes and agenda, of International Relations and Cooperation of the
we cannot achieve envisioned objectives as outlined Republic of Namibia, will continue to successfully Today, we are proud that SADC has matured into a These priorities require that we continue with our
in our approved strategic blueprints. Regional advance the regional integration agenda. fully-fledged organisation whose focus is to advance efforts to support the COMESA-EAC-SADC Tripartite
integration is not an option and, as such, we must the prosperity of the region and its people. Free Trade Area as an important building bloc
strive to establish sustainable funding mechanisms I implore each one of us to render unwavering towards the achievement of the African Continental
for the implementation of SADC programmes and support to the Incoming Chairperson of Council as It is important to remind ourselves about the treaty Free Trade Area.
projects. we demonstrate to the continent and the rest of the establishing SADC, particularly its objectives to forge
world our collective commitment to the ideals and regional integration, better the lives of our people, Your Excellencies,
Honourable Ministers, Distinguished Ladies and values of SADC. promote democracy and economic prosperity and
Gentlemen, ensure peace and security. We note with appreciation that our region remains
I thank you all for your attention, and wish you fruitful relatively peaceful and stable.
As I mentioned during my speech in March 2018 deliberations. Despite the clear intent in the treaty, our region is still
in Pretoria, the SADC region remains relatively Merci. confronted with many challenges, including a lack of Elections are held at regular intervals as we strive to
peaceful and stable. Peace, security and stability Obrigada. adequate infrastructure, underdevelopment, poverty, entrench and consolidate democracy, the rule of law,
are essential ingredients for sustainable economic the effects of climate change and the spread of human rights and good governance.
growth, poverty alleviation, addressing inequalities communicable diseases.
and underdevelopment in the region. South Africa has aligned its National Development
In responding to these challenges, we can say with Plan to the vision of the SADC Common Agenda,
The region’s democratic footprint and its prevailing confidence that our regional organisation is on a which seeks to bring about peace, stability, security
positive security and political climate are undoubtedly positive trajectory. and sustainable development in the region.
conducive to the promotion of investment inflows
into the region and contribute towards intra-regional In the recent past, we have developed key plans that In promoting our own national objectives, South Africa
trade and the movement of capital. guide our efforts to realise our mandate. values the critical role SADC plays as an instrument
of regional development and integration.
These include the Revised Regional Indicative
Strategic Development Plan (2015 – 2020), the I am certain that our deliberations at this summit will
Regional Industrialisation Strategy and Roadmap, serve to further strengthen the bonds between us
20 21and reinforce our determination to realise the vision since becoming the President of South Africa and a South Africa hosted the second SADC Industrialisation increased intra-SADC trade and investment
of this organisation. member of the SADC collective. Week during 2017, which created a platform for and further strengthening regional financial
targeted engagement with the private sector and integration.
Only through collective action and shared South Africa is firmly committed to play its part in deepened the focus on key investment opportunities
• The SADC Energy Foresight and Assessment
accountability, will we be able to advance our building a better SADC, a better Africa and a better in the region.
Study in support of the SADC Industrialisation
integration agenda. world.
Strategy and Roadmap is underway, with data
The Industrialisation Week that was recently held
having been gathered from six of the member
In conclusion, allow me to thank you for the warm I thank you. in Windhoek is a further testimony to our collective
states.
welcome and the great support I have received efforts to strengthen public-private partnerships
within our region. • A SADC Engineering Needs and Numbers Study
is close to completion. It aims to obtain a better
Over the period of our Chairship, we have been able understanding of the engineering capacities in
Keynote address by President Ramaphosa at the 38th SADC Summit, to secure more than US$500 million of committed the SADC region to allow for better planning and
Windhoek, Namibia, 17 August 2018 productive investments by South African companies implementation of infrastructure programmes.
in each of the priority value chains across the • As part of World Food Day, a model has been
Your Excellency, Dr Hage Geingob, President of the Republic of Namibia, region. The investments cover forestry, agriculture developed for regional food security. The model
Your Majesty, King Mswati III of the Kingdom of eSwatini, and agro-processing, fertilisers, mining and mineral will be launched during this year’s World Food
Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government, processing, and pharmaceuticals. They reflect South Day in Namibia.
Your Excellency, President Paul Kagame of the Republic of Rwanda and Chairperson of the African Union, Africa’s commitment to moving from a trade-based
• Progress has been made in addressing
Your Excellency, Mr Moussa Mahamat Faki, Chairperson of the African Union Commission, to an investment-led development strategy for the
tuberculosis in the mining sector across 10 SADC
Honourable Ministers, region.
countries. More than 10 000 claimants received
SADC Executive Secretary,
payment and one-stop service centres were
Excellencies, Ambassadors and High Commissioners, Representatives of the Regional and International The previous summit directed the Secretariat to
opened in Botswana, Lesotho, Mozambique
Organisations, Senior Officials from the SADC Member States, facilitate the establishment of a regional Natural Gas
and eSwatini, thereby increasing access of ex-
SADC Secretariat Officials Committee to promote the inclusion of gas in the
mineworkers to decentralised services.
Distinguished Guests, regional energy mix.
Ladies and Gentlemen, • The shared procurement of essential medicines
The Terms of Reference on the Working Group for the and commodities in SADC has been identified as
It is a great privilege for me to welcome you to the Excellencies, Ladies and Gentlemen, Inter-State Natural Gas Committee were approved, a priority with the aim to establish an autonomous
38th Ordinary Summit of the SADC Heads of State culminating in the signing of a Statement of Intent non-profit organisation called the SADC Pooled
and Government. The year 2017/18 marked the third year of on Cooperation on the Development of Regional Gas Procurement Services.
implementation of the Revised Regional Indicative Market and Infrastructure during the joint meeting of
• The Medicines Regulatory Harmonisation Project
It is a particular honour to do so on SADC Day, Strategic Development Plan 2015 – 2020. While SADC ministers responsible for energy and water in
is focussing on establishing and strengthening
17 August. This day marks 26 years since we signed we recorded significant achievements in the June 2018
regional and subregional networks of regulatory
the treaty that established our organisation – a treaty implementation of programmes across all priority authorities.
that I had the privilege to sign on behalf of the African areas, there are still areas that require our urgent There have been a number of concrete initiatives
National Congress. attention. over the last year that now form part of the SADC • The implementation of Phase III of the SADC
work programme: Roam-Like-At-Home Initiative began in
Let me express my gratitude to my brother, His As regional leaders, we have a responsibility to October 2017. This entails the development of
Excellency, President Hage Geingob and the people prioritise the needs of our people and find lasting • The framework model on the control and a harmonised cost model for wholesale and
of Namibia for the warm reception and gracious and sustainable solutions to poverty, inequality and management of the fall army worm is being rolled retail roaming tariffs to be used by all national
hospitality accorded to all of us. underdevelopment. That is why the 37th SADC out with the Food and Agriculture Organisation. regulatory authorities in SADC.
Summit, held last year in Pretoria, adopted the theme Capacity-building workshops have been held in • A task team was appointed to work on a framework
I wish to thank you, Your Excellencies, for the of “Partnering with the Private Sector in Developing Mozambique, Madagascar and Zambia. to operationalise the SADC Declaration on the
guidance and support you accorded South Africa Industry and Regional Value Chains”. • A programme to develop capacity in industrial Fourth Industrial Revolution.
since our country took over the Chairship of SADC policymaking has been initiated, with South
last year. Member states were urged to operationalise Africa hosting a SADC Industrial Policy for Your Excellencies,
the theme through implementation of projects Policymakers Training Programme in September
It has been an honour to work with fellow member in the focus areas of agro-processing, mineral 2017 as a pilot initiative. Over the years, SADC member states have
states in advancing all areas of the SADC agenda. beneficiation, energy and pharmaceuticals.
• The SADC Integrated Regional Electronic acknowledged that the private sector should play
Members states were also called upon to work
Settlement System has gained significant a leading role in creating jobs, driving trade and
Let us continue to work in unity to do more for our to develop skills and create mechanisms for the
momentum, establishing a firm platform for industrialisation and fostering regional integration.
people, together with our people. involvement of the private sector.
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