MAPUTO – The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has commended Mozambique’s progress in key areas such as peace, security, regional trade, and development.
Speaking on Tuesday in Maputo, SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi expressed the organization’s satisfaction with the achievements Mozambique has recorded. The remarks were made following a working meeting held at the Office of the Mozambican Head of State, Daniel Chapo.
According to Magosi, the meeting was an opportunity to align priorities and identify areas where SADC can continue to support Mozambique.
“I was discussing with President Chapo the vision of how we believe SADC can move forward. Secondly, we wanted to understand some of the priorities that the government and the President intend to pursue, and how SADC, as a regional body, can assist Mozambique,” Magosi stated.
Political Advancements and Inclusive Dialogue
In the political domain, Magosi highlighted Mozambique’s positive steps following the 2024 general elections, noting the government’s intention to launch a significant national process.
“You’ll recall that immediately after the elections there were some tensions, but the President made notable progress. In fact, I believe he will launch a very important process tomorrow. This is a step in the right direction, and we truly commend him for that,” he said.
The process in question refers to the launch of a nationwide public consultation—both domestically and among the diaspora—on an inclusive national dialogue. This dialogue has been agreed upon between the government and political parties, with the involvement of civil society, academia, and a broad cross-section of society.
Economic Integration and Infrastructure Development
On the economic front, Magosi emphasised the need to accelerate regional integration by facilitating trade. He underscored the importance of removing trade barriers and ratifying key regional instruments, such as the SADC Trade Protocol and the Regional Development Fund, which helps mobilise financial resources.
He stressed that it is the responsibility of SADC Member States to ratify legal instruments—including the Regional Development Fund—to enable the implementation of projects and to support countries with limited financial capacity.
Magosi also acknowledged the positive impact of infrastructure investments in strategic transport corridors such as Nacala and Beira. These corridors have benefited from support by institutions like the African Development Bank and Africa50.
“Behind all of this is the infrastructure that enables trade. The President has shown us the progress being made along the corridors. These are positive developments, as countries work to ensure border points operate efficiently,” Magosi added, noting that functional corridors are essential for the movement of people, goods, and capital.
Security and Stability in Cabo Delgado
On the issue of security, the Executive Secretary reiterated the importance of stabilising the northern province of Cabo Delgado, where terrorism remains a persistent challenge.
“It’s important for us that the Cabo Delgado region remains stable. There is terrorism there, and we need to contain it. We commend the work being done by the government and the President, including the projects being implemented to not only promote peace but also foster development in those communities,” he said.
Magosi confirmed that SADC will continue to monitor the situation in Cabo Delgado, highlighting the role played by the SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM).
“We are still monitoring to ensure Cabo Delgado remains stable. If terrorism is contained there, it won’t spill over into the wider region. Therefore, we will continue to work alongside Mozambique in this regard,” he concluded.
The statements reflect continued regional solidarity and the growing confidence in Mozambique’s trajectory under President Chapo’s leadership, particularly in fostering peace, rebuilding areas, and strengthening regional economic ties.
