SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi addresses Council of Ministers, highlights regional progress and priorities

He thanked the South African government for hosting and acknowledged the leadership of Ronald Lamola, Minister of International Relations and Cooperation of South Africa and Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers, and Professor Dr. Amon Murwira, Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe and Outgoing Chairperson. Magosi highlighted regional progress despite global challenges, noting a 3,253 MW increase in new installed generation capacity in mainland SADC states and 1,611 MW from island states in the 2025/26 financial year, bringing total regional installed capacity to 88,202 MW. Regional electricity access rose from 56% in 2024 to 60% in 2025.

Digital connectivity also saw improvements, with internet penetration at 57.2%, 4G network coverage at 79.2%, and mobile penetration at 95.2%. Intra-regional trade reached 20.2% in 2025, and Foreign Direct Investment increased by 44% to US$11 billion. Agricultural growth is estimated at 2-3% in 2025, with a 16% reduction in food-insecure people.

Magosi emphasized the importance of youth in agrifood systems transformation and the need for greater investment in science, technology, and innovation. He also noted progress in peace and security, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo and Madagascar, and the role of the SADC Panel of Elders. Fifteen me