Online Reporter
Wallace Ruzvidzo
Herald Reporter
THE European Union has mobilised €195,9 million for 10 projects across the Sadc region, covering peace and security, agriculture, trade, natural resources management, digital transformation and infrastructure development, the bloc has said.
The Sadc Secretariat, led by Executive Secretary Mr Elias Magosi, held its first quarterly meeting of the 2026/27 financial year, reaffirming its strong partnership in driving trade, development and regional integration.
In a communiqué yesterday, SADC said the EU’s initiatives were already making a difference, from strengthening disaster risk management and deploying emergency response teams in Mozambique, South Africa, and Madagascar, to expanding market access and supporting regional agricultural policy.
“Co‑chaired by Mr Elias Magosi, SADC Executive Secretary and HE Ambassador Ms Petra Pereyra, Head of the EU Delegation to Botswana and SADC, the meeting, which was held virtually, reviewed progress on EU‑funded programmes under the 2021-2027 Multiannual Indicative Programme for Sub‑Saharan Africa (MIP SSA).
“The EU has mobilised €195,9 million to support ten projects across the SADC region, covering peace and security, agriculture, trade, natural resources management, digital transformation, and infrastructure development,” said the bloc.
This year also marks 10 years since the EU-SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) was signed, a landmark accord that has boosted exports, opened markets, and strengthened economic ties between Southern Africa and Europe.
The EPA has been central to trade facilitation and regional integration, ensuring that businesses and communities benefit from expanded opportunities.
During the meeting, Mr Magosi noted that trade remained a cornerstone of regional integration, pointing out that it generates jobs, builds resilience, and drives prosperity.
“He stressed that cooperation with the EU is essential for the SADC region to fully unlock its potential through stronger trade systems and deeper integration.
“He also expressed appreciation to the EU for its continued support, saying it has strengthened institutions and created opportunities for businesses, farmers, and communities across the region,” said Sadc.
The EU’s Ambassador Pereyra reiterated the bloc’s commitment to shared prosperity, stressing that trade is a powerful driver of development and regional integration.
She noted that continued investment in strategic corridors, agriculture, and digital transformation is helping lay the foundation for deeper cooperation and wider opportunities for citizens.
“She further thanked Sadc for its leadership and dedication, noting that the EU’s support is most effective when matched by the region’s own commitment to building a stronger, more connected community,” said the Secretariat.
Both sides reaffirmed their determination to shape the next phase of cooperation.
The upcoming Annual Action Plan (AAP 2026) will prioritise institutional capacity building, NaturAfrica II, and efforts to combat trafficking and organised crime.
“With trade and integration at the core, the partnership aims to deliver even greater impact, ensuring that Sadc citizens, businesses and communities continue to benefit from stronger ties with Europe and a more resilient regional economy,” reads the communique.
