Ministers from the East African Community (EAC) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) have convened in Harare, Zimbabwe, today, March 17, 2025, to assess the progress made in implementing resolutions from the Joint Summit held on February 8, 2025, in Dar es Salaam, Tanzania.
The high-level meeting, directed by the Joint Summit, aims to address key issues, including security in the eastern Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), the establishment of a technical coordination mechanism, and the development of a roadmap for long-term implementation strategies. Discussions will also cover financial modalities and any outstanding matters critical to achieving sustainable peace and security in the region.
Chaired jointly by Kenya’s Prime Cabinet Secretary and Cabinet Secretary for Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, Dr. Musalia Mudavadi, alongside Zimbabwe’s Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade, Prof. Amon Murwira, the meeting brings together top officials to refine strategies and recommendations for the next Joint EAC-SADC Summit.
One of the central points on the agenda is the report from the Joint Meeting of Chiefs of Defence, which assessed the evolving security landscape in eastern DRC. Ministers will deliberate on the findings and propose actions to bolster stability in the conflict-affected region.
Additionally, discussions are focused on setting up a Secretariat-level Technical Coordination Mechanism to oversee the implementation of Joint Summit decisions. This mechanism is expected to ensure effective monitoring and execution of policies aimed at fostering cooperation between the two regional blocs.
A detailed roadmap outlining immediate, medium, and long-term implementation measures is also under review. This includes structured financing options to support sustainable solutions for regional security and development.
The outcomes of this ministerial meeting will be compiled into a set of recommendations for consideration by EAC-SADC Heads of State and Government at their next Joint Summit.
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