SADC leaders gather in Durban for 46th summit with six priorities on the table

Southern African Development Community (SADC) leaders have convened in Durban for the 46th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government to consider a six-point agenda aimed at accelerating regional integration and development. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is hosting and chairing the summit at the Durban International Convention Centre, which is held under the theme: “Resilient, sustainable and inclusive industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World.”

What leaders will review

The summit programme sets out a focused review of the bloc’s progress and the challenges facing the region. SADC will examine the overall state of the region, including global, continental and regional economic trends and the socio-economic and political performance of member states in relation to the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030 and SADC Vision 2050.

Checking previous commitments

One formal item is a review of progress on decisions adopted at previous SADC summits. Leaders will assess implementation across areas where the bloc has adopted commitments, including economic integration, infrastructure, agriculture, peace and security, and regional development.

Progress since the 45th Summit

The meeting will also evaluate progress since the 45th SADC Summit, held in Antananarivo, Madagascar in August 2025, which focused on industrialisation, agricultural transformation and energy transition. Delegates are expected to consider what further steps are required to advance those commitments.

Regional Development Fund on the agenda

Operationalisation of the SADC Regional Development Fund is listed as a key issue. The fund is designed to finance and support regional projects and programmes that strengthen integration and economic development.

Food security and disaster preparedness

Food and nutrition security and disaster preparedness are also priorities. Leaders will consider the state of regional food and nutrition security and measures to improve disaster response, including steps to strengthen the SADC Humanitarian and Emergency Operations Centre (SHOC).

Geopolitical developments and regional resilience

The summit will examine the impact of global geopolitical developments on Southern Africa, including international conflicts, shifts in trade and commodity markets, and broader geopolitical tensions, and consider measures to bolster the region’s resilience.

What is at stake

SADC says the summit’s theme emphasises infrastructure, agriculture and critical minerals as drivers of industrialisation. The bloc’s stated focus is on building a region that is industrially competitive, climate resilient and socially inclusive with the goal of creating a more prosperous future for citizens across Southern Africa.