Gibson Nyikadzino

Zimpapers Politics Hub

 

The Chinese government has announced a $90 000 annual grant for the 2026-2027 financial year to support capacity building initiatives at the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat and to enable effective delivery of its regional mandate.

 

In a meeting with SADC’s executive secretary Mr Elias Magosi yesterday, China’s Ambassador to Botswana and Special Representative to SADC Mr Fan Yong said the grant was in line with the framework agreement the two parties signed in October 2019.

 

Mr Yong also reaffirmed the strong partnership between SADC and China in advancing regional development, and conveyed China’s appreciation for the robust partnership with the SADC region, reiterating his country’s readiness to supporting regional cooperation.

 

The Chinese government also pledged commitment to support the SADC region through global initiatives anchored on China’s commitment to international affairs, development, sustainable security, respect for diversity of civilisation and the sovereign equality of all countries.

 

Mr Magosi thanked the Chinese government for the continued support to the secretariat and for bilateral cooperation with SADC member states, expressing optimism that the relationship between SADC and China will grow in addressing the region’s challenges.

 

The two parties also took time to review progress on the utlisation of the previous grant China extended and plans for the utilisation of the one for the upcoming financial year.