Online Reporter
Gibson Mhaka [email protected]
SADC member states must accelerate the development of efficient transport systems, modern digital infrastructure and resilient communication networks to deepen regional integration and unlock economic growth opportunities across the region, Transport and Infrastructure Development Minister Felix Mhona has said.
Speaking during the SADC High-Level Ministerial Round Table Dialogue held on the sidelines of the ongoing Sixth SADC Cluster Meeting of Ministers Responsible for Transport, ICT, Information and Meteorology in Bulawayo on Thursday, Minister Mhona said stronger connectivity was critical in advancing regional integration and improving citizens’ livelihoods.
The dialogue brought together ministers, senior government officials, aviation experts, policymakers and development partners from across the region to deliberate on practical solutions to challenges affecting transport, ICT and aviation sectors.
Minister Mhona said the region was meeting at a crucial juncture as Sadc pursued deeper integration and economic transformation.
“This dialogue comes at a critical moment for our region as Sadc pursues deeper regional integration. We must strengthen the systems that connect our economies, our people and our markets,” he said.
He noted that efficient transport networks, modern digital infrastructure, reliable meteorological services and emerging technologies were becoming increasingly important in driving economic growth and competitiveness.
“Efficient transport networks, modern digital infrastructure, reliable met services and emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence are no longer optional,” said Minister Mhona.
The minister said the aviation sector remained one of the key enablers of regional integration and economic development, calling for the removal of barriers that continue to hinder seamless movement within the region.
“Today’s discussions provide us with an opportunity to reaffirm our commitment to such flagship initiatives that have the potential to transform aviation across Africa.”
He said through the liberalisation of air services, Sadc countries could significantly improve regional connectivity and stimulate economic activity.
“Through the liberalisation of air services, we can improve connectivity, facilitate trade and tourism, reduce the cost of travel and create new opportunities for investment and growth.”
Minister Mhona said Zimbabwe remained committed to advancing the continent’s aviation agenda through policy reforms and strategic investments.
“Zimbabwe remains committed to this vision through the implementation of these principles, continued aviation infrastructure investment and support for initiatives that promote seamless regional connectivity,” he said.
While acknowledging progress made by member states, Minister Mhona said more work was needed to remove obstacles limiting regional integration.
“Much more remains to be done. We must continue working together to remove barriers that limit the movement of people, goods and services across our region.”
He also challenged the region to collectively address the growing threat posed by climate change, saying infrastructure development should prioritise resilience and sustainability.
“Equally important is our collective response to the growing impact of climate change.
The increasing frequency of extreme weather events demands that we build infrastructure that is resilient, adaptive and future-ready.”
He said technological innovation, particularly artificial intelligence and digital systems, could play a significant role in strengthening disaster preparedness and enhancing operational efficiency.
“By harnessing artificial intelligence, digital technologies and advanced systems, we can improve forecasting, strengthen disaster preparedness and enhance the safety and efficiency of our transport networks.”
Minister Mhona urged delegates and panellists to use the platform to generate practical solutions capable of driving regional development.
“Let us use this platform to exchange ideas, share experiences and develop practical solutions that will advance regional integration and improve the lives of our citizens.”
In a lighter moment, Minister Mhona congratulated Mozambique on the commemoration of its Independence Day and also celebrated Zimbabwe’s recent election to the United Nations Security Council as a non-permanent member.
The ongoing SADC Cluster Meeting is expected to produce recommendations aimed at enhancing regional cooperation in transport, ICT, information, meteorology and aviation, sectors regarded as critical pillars for the attainment of regional integration and sustainable economic development.
