Story by Oleen Ndori
THE 27th meeting of the Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation has begun in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania, with discussions looking into peace and security, empowerment, and inclusion of women in peace efforts within the region.
In his opening remarks, SADC Executive Secretary, H.E. Elias Magosi, said the critical issue for the region is tackling the root causes of violence, poverty, and inequality, also celebrating the milestone participation of women in peace and security.
“From our peacekeeping experiences, including SAMIM, SADC has drawn important lessons, especially the importance of Post-Conflict Reconstruction and Development (PCRD). Tackling root causes such as poverty, inequality, underdevelopment, and marginalisation is essential to prevent a return to uncertainty, instability, and violence. Restoring livelihoods, promoting inclusive recovery, strengthening governance, and showing care for the disadvantaged sections of our society are enabling keys to long-term peacebuilding. To advance this approach, the SADC Secretariat is finalising its PCRD and Transitional Justice Framework, a strategic instrument that will support Member States emerging from various forms of conflict and help prevent cyclical instability.
“This year, 2025, also marks the 25th anniversary of UN Security Council Resolution 1325, a milestone in promoting women’s participation in peace and security. In the SADC region, notable progress has been made, with eight Member States, namely the Democratic Republic of Congo and the Republics of Angola, Madagascar, Malawi, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, and Zimbabwe, completing their National Action Plans (NAPs) to domesticate the Women, Peace and Security agenda. To build on this, the SADC Regional Network of Women Mediators was launched on January 28, 2025, strengthening inclusive peacemaking and ensuring that the voices of women and children remain central in conflict prevention strategies,” he said.
Chairperson of the Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo, noted progress that has been made in the establishment of structures such as Early Warning Systems and the Panel of Elders to assist in enhancing peace within SADC.
“Our region continues to do commendable work to promote and enhance peace and security. This has been realised through collaborative efforts between Member States, as well as the establishment of structures such as Early Warning Systems and the Panel of Elders to assist in such endeavours. In that case, we owe a great deal of gratitude to the Panel of Elders and the Mediation Reference Group for their insights and instrumental role in rendering needed support towards regional conflict resolution and mediation initiatives. The establishment of the Network of Women Mediators early this year adds to the legion of essential actors needed for effective mediation and for addressing complex conflict settings. Going forward, the Platform will be critical in incorporating the needs of women and children in the peace processes, therefore ensuring that no one is left behind,” he noted.
Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Professor Amon Murwira, unpacked the region’s commitment to peace efforts and the achievement of sustainable development.
Some issues under spotlight include the termination of the SADC Mission in DRC and Mozambique and commitment to pursue dialogue and negotiation in line with the continental mantra ‘Africa’s solutions to Africa’s problems.’
