SADC Summit elects Lesotho to lead security organ

During a virtual extraordinary SADC Summit, Lesotho was elected as the incoming chairperson of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation. South African President Cyril Ramaphosa emphasized that the security organ is essential for regional integration and economic development.

Addressing regional stability, Ramaphosa highlighted the ongoing humanitarian crisis and civilian displacement in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo. He also noted the need for sustained vigilance against terrorism and extremism in parts of the region, specifically mentioning Northern Mozambique.

Additionally, the summit addressed the climate crisis, which Ramaphosa described as a persistent threat to economic and social progress. He called for strengthened regional early warning systems, improved disaster preparedness, and investment in climate-resilient infrastructure to mitigate the impact of climate-related disasters on national budgets and development.