NEW: SADC pledges full support for Zim’s debt resolution

Kuda Bwititi

Zimpapers Politics Hub

THE Southern African Development Community (SADC) has unequivocally backed the ongoing initiative to resolve Zimbabwe’s debt burden and foster economic recovery, emphasising the nation’s critical role in regional stability and integration.

Speaking at a dedicated roundtable session on Zimbabwe held on the sidelines of the 2025 IMF/World Bank Group Spring Meetings on Monday, SADC Executive Secretary Mr Elias Magosi conveyed the regional body’s full support for the process.

He expressed confidence that the initiative, facilitated by former Mozambican President Dr Joaquim Chissano and championed by African Development Bank President Dr Akinwumi Adesina, would be crucial in helping Zimbabwe overcome its current challenges.

“SADC fully supports this initiative and believes it will play a crucial role in helping our sister country, the Republic of Zimbabwe, transition from its current challenges to a more progressive and solution-focused future, ultimately restoring its former glory,” Mr Magosi stated.

The Executive Secretary acknowledged the distinct and complementary roles of Dr Chissano as the facilitator between Zimbabwe and its creditors, and Dr Adesina in championing the arrears clearance process. He also commended the “commitment and willingness of creditors and development partners to engage meaningfully and be part of the solution.”

Mr Magosi reiterated SADC’s long-standing solidarity with Zimbabwe, referencing the region’s annual call each October for the “unconditional and immediate lifting of sanctions imposed on Zimbabwean individuals and institutions.”

He stressed the importance of direct, face-to-face dialogue between Zimbabwe, its creditors, and development partners as essential for forging lasting solutions and building consensus, acknowledging that compromises would be necessary.

The roundtable included notable figures such as Zimbabwe’s Minister of Finance, Economic Development and Investment Promotion, Prof Mthuli Ncube, and the World Bank Group Vice President for the Africa Region, Mr Ndiame Diop.