SADC, US MOVE TO REDEFINE PARTNERSHIP AMID SHIFTING GLOBAL PRIORITIES

SADC and US chart new course to strengthen ties amid shifting global challenges.

Sadc Africa Development Corperation Southern africa Reforms Dialogue forum.
SADC, US Officails Dialogue Forum
SADC, US Officails Dialogue Forum



Southern African leaders and US officials are taking steps to overhaul their cooperation framework, as both sides seek to align their strategic interests in an increasingly complex geopolitical environment.

The move comes as the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and the United States review draft terms of reference (TORs) for a new SADC-USA Dialogue Forum. Developed jointly with the US Embassy in Botswana, the TORs are being scrutinized by SADC Member States before a consolidated response is sent to Washington.

Speaking at the inaugural SADC-USA Senior Officials Dialogue Forum in Madagascar, SADC Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration, Angele Makombo N’tumba, said the new forum is intended to establish “mutual trust, shared values, and reciprocal benefit” in the relationship.

She stressed that, since 2013, cooperation has been guided by the Regional Development Objective Agreement. However, today’s global realities, ranging from energy transitions to economic uncertainty, demand a more adaptive and results-oriented approach.

“The policy direction and operating model of the present US administration reflect a distinct shift in priorities,” N’tumba noted. “It is, therefore, important that through this dialogue, we develop practical ways to adapt and refocus our cooperation towards a more responsive and fruitful partnership.”

US Deputy Assistant Secretary for African Affairs, Melanie Higgins, said the forum offers a timely platform to address pressing challenges such as food insecurity, energy access, and financing constraints while ensuring regional and US priorities remain in sync.

With discussions on the forum’s structure and objectives now underway, both sides appear intent on shaping a partnership that is more strategic, inclusive, and responsive to the evolving needs of Southern Africa.

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