Story by Josephine Mugiyo, Diplomatic Correspondent
SOUTH AFRICA has hosted a virtual extraordinary SADC summit which, among other issues discussed the security situation in Madagascar which currently has a transitional government after political challenges the country faced in September this year.
President Emmerson Mnangagwa was represented in the virtual meeting by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira.
The virtual meeting saw Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema being ushered in as the incoming chairperson of SADC. The political challenges in Madagascar saw a transitional government being put in place after the former President Andry Rajoelina was removed, with Madagascar relinquishing the post of SADC chair.
In his address, South African President Cyril Ramaphosa reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to ensuring peace in the Island country, noting that a panel of elders led by former Malawian President Joyce Banda will be deployed to Madagascar in 2026 to foster peaceful dialogue.
He called on Madagascar to deeply reflect on the challenges it is facing and choose peace.
