South Africa’s SADC Chairmanship: Priorities for 2026‑2027
Boosting Regional Trade
South Africa aims to raise trade between SADC member states from about 20 % to 50 % during its 2026‑2027 leadership. Minister Ronald Lamola said the region holds nearly 30 % of the world’s proven critical‑mineral reserves, including roughly half of global cobalt and a fifth of graphite. To turn this wealth into local jobs and growth, SADC must process minerals at source, build regional value chains, and trade more with one another.
Infrastructure and Industrialisation
Reliable energy, modern transport corridors, efficient ports, integrated digital networks, and secure water supplies are essential for expanding manufacturing. Currently, manufacturing contributes only about 10 % of SADC’s GDP, far below what is needed to create jobs for the region’s young population. Lamola stressed that upgrading infrastructure will unlock industrial growth and help SADC move up the value chain.
Developing Human and Social Capital
Africa’s median age is 19, and nearly 60 % of its people are under 25. By 2030, one in four young people worldwide will be African. Lamola highlighted that job creation must keep pace with this demographic boom. Priorities include education, skills training, gender equality, and programs that empower youth and women.
Climate Resilience and Disaster Risk Management
Climate shocks threaten agriculture, water supplies, and livelihoods. SADC’s plans will weave climate‑resilient practices into every project, ensuring that development does not leave communities vulnerable to floods, droughts, or extreme weather.
Orderly Migration
Migration is both a challenge and an opportunity. Lamola called on SADC states to adopt the protocol on the free movement of people, promoting regular, lawful migration that supports labour markets while upholding human rights. He warned against vigilantism and stressed that migration should be seen as linked to economic opportunity, not just security.
Peace, Security, and Stability
Security in one SADC country affects the whole bloc. Lamola reminded members of the region’s strong record of collective responses to threats and urged continued solidarity to tackle emerging political and security challenges amid global uncertainties.
Conclusion
South Africa’s chairmanship will focus on turning SADC’s abundant natural resources into shared prosperity through increased intra‑regional trade, better infrastructure, skilled youth, climate‑smart policies, orderly migration, and lasting peace. By meeting these goals, the region can lift living standards and build a future that benefits all its people.
