Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve
[email protected]
THE Southern African Development Community (SADC) has taken a major step toward deeper regional integration, with the adoption of several legal instruments to accelerate economic growth, strengthen public health, and ease the movement of people across the 16-nation bloc.
The decisions were announced on Friday in Victoria Falls by Ms Mmamoloko Kubayi, Chairperson of the SADC Committee of Ministers of Justice and Attorneys General.
Zimbabwe’s Attorney General, Mrs Virginia Mabhiza, led the host nation’s delegation.
Among the key instruments adopted are a draft agreement amending Article 33 of the SADC Treaty, a draft establishing the SADC Tourism Univisa, and a charter creating the SADC Pharmaceuticals Pooled Procurement Services.
Minister Kubayi said the Univisa will simplify border crossings for tourists, boosting the region’s travel and hospitality sectors, while the pooled procurement charter will enable bulk buying of medicines, cutting costs and improving access to essential drugs.
The meeting also reviewed progress on reviving the long-dormant SADC Tribunal. “We reaffirmed our collective commitment to continue national consultations aimed at advancing this important process,” Minister Kubayi said.
She urged member states to speed up ratification of existing protocols, stressing that collective decisions must translate into tangible benefits for ordinary citizens.
As South Africa prepares to assume the full chairship of SADC in August 2026, the next session of the Committee will be held in that country.
Minister Kubayi extended deep appreciation to the Government and people of Zimbabwe for their warm hospitality and excellent arrangements.
Bongani Ndlovu