17/08/2026
The BMA Commissioner, Dr Michael Masiapato is attending the 46th Ordinary Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government in Durban.
Opening the Summit, the incoming SADC Chairperson, President Cyril Ramaphosa, reflected on the significance of the 17 August 1992 signing of the SADC Declaration and Treaty in Windhoek, Namibia, exactly 34 years ago.
President Ramaphosa emphasised that SADC’s history is rooted in solidarity, cooperation and the collective struggle against colonialism, minority rule and apartheid. He called on Member States to now translate that political liberation into economic and social progress that improves the lives of ordinary people.
He highlighted the region’s vast natural resources, agricultural potential, skills and youthful population, noting that SADC must do more to create jobs, grow industries, beneficiate its resources and strengthen trade within the region.
The President also stressed that peace, security and democratic stability remain essential for development, urging countries to resolve differences through dialogue and strengthen regional cooperation.
The Summit reinforces the importance of working together, delivering on commitments and contributing to safer, more stable and prosperous communities. A platform that brings together 16 SADC Member States and provides an important vehicle to strengthen regional cooperation and advance a shared vision of prosperity and development.
President Ramaphosa formally declared the 46th Ordinary Summit open, calling on the region to turn decisions and commitments into tangible improvements in the lives of its people.