Online Reporter
Richard Muponde, Zimpapers Politics Hub
The Committee of Ministers of Justice and Attorneys General of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will convene virtually on 11 July 2025 to consider comprehensive legal reforms, including amendments to regional protocols and the long-awaited revival of the SADC Tribunal.
Zimbabwe’s Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs Minister Ziyambi Ziyambi, will chair the meeting in his capacity as Chairperson of the Committee.
At the top of the agenda will be the re-operationalisation of the SADC Tribunal, the selection of a judge for the Administrative Tribunal, and a draft report analysing delays in the signing and ratification of key regional legal instruments.
“This meeting reflects SADC’s commitment to strengthening regional legal governance, accelerating implementation of protocols, and restoring the integrity of institutions like the Tribunal,” said Ms Barbara Lopi, the SADC Secretariat Head of Communication and Public Relations
The ministers will also consider a draft greement to amend the SADC Treaty, establishing a structure comprising institutional Troikas to facilitate rapid and collective decision-making between formal sessions.
“SADC needs agile, responsive mechanisms to manage urgent legal and political developments. The proposed Troika structure ensures timely action and continuous guidance,” the spokesperson added.
Another key proposal is the amendment of the Protocol on Finance and Investment to integrate anti-money laundering, terrorism financing and proliferation financing controls, aligning with Financial Action Task Force (FATF) recommendations.
“SADC is modernising its legal instruments to meet global standards and safeguard financial systems in the region,” Ms Lopi noted.
The committee will also review proposed changes to the Charter of the SADC Aviation Safety Organisation (SASO) to enhance civil aviation safety across member states.
The ministers’ meeting will follow a technical session of SADC Senior Legal Officials, from 7–10 July.
