Online Reporter
Leonard Ncube, [email protected]
ZAMBIA has pledged its unwavering support for SADC chairperson, President Mnangagwa, in his efforts to ensure peace and security prevail across the region.
This gesture of solidarity is crucial in the face of emerging security threats in the region, particularly the Eastern DRC conflict, which has resulted in the loss of lives and displacement of thousands of people.
As a member of the SADC Organ and Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Co-operation, Zambia’s backing of Zimbabwe’s leadership is a testament to the strength of bilateral relations between the two nations.
The 34th Session of the Zimbabwe-Zambia Joint Permanent Commission on Defence and Security, recently convened by the two countries, serves as a platform to reinforce their commitment to mutual peace, stability and development.
The meeting, co-chaired by Zimbabwe’s Minister of State for National Security, Lovemore Matuke and Zambia’s Minister of Home Affairs and Internal Security, Jacob Jack Mwiimbu, demonstrated the resolve of both nations to collaborate in the areas of defence and security.
In addition to addressing regional security challenges, the meeting also provided an opportunity for the two countries to pay tribute to the founding fathers of SADC, who envisioned a united and prosperous region.
The passing of former Namibian President Sam Nujoma on February 8, 2025, was also mourned by the delegates, who recognised his contributions to the liberation struggle and regional integration.
Speaking at the event, Minister Matuke, who was accompanied by Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri, said the two sister republics enjoy excellent bilateral relations.
“Our relationship has stood the test of time and continues to grow. It is our hope that this relationship continues to be nurtured and passed on to the next generation in the spirit of togetherness, oneness and harmony,” he said.
“Our sister republics remain seized with efforts to counter traditional and non-traditional issues confronting our two nations, as well as exchange of information on issues of mutual interest.
“These include food and energy insecurity, transnational organised crime including human and drug trafficking and cross border malpractices, among others.
“It’s, therefore, my fervent hope that this JPCDS will offer some solutions to the challenges confronting our two countries, which require our countries to put heads together.”
He thanked Zambia for its support of Zimbabwe’s call for the removal of illegal sanctions, which continue to have adverse effects on the region
His co-chair Mwiimba said the meeting was a sign of comradeship.
“We must remain aware of the various threats that have the potential to undermine internal border or regional security,” he said.
“It’s imperative for security personnel for both countries to intensify collaboration to fight security threats and promote common interest.
“Zambia remains resolute in promoting this commission and remains committed to supporting Zimbabwe as chair of the SADC” he said.
In the communique that was produced at the end of the meetings, Zambia re-affirmed its commitment as a member of the SADC Organ Troika on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
“As Zambia, we will always give support to the chairperson of SADC in his efforts of ensuring peace and security in the region and beyond,” read the communique.
The joint commission emphasised the need to implement outstanding resolutions and further strengthen collaboration in these areas of mutual interest.
It also noted that despite the general peace and stability in the SADC region, there was a need to weed out terrorism, transnational crimes, poaching, irregular migration, human and drug trafficking, smuggling and other related cross-border vices.
In this regard, the Commission agreed to continue co-operating and devising new strategies to address these security threats, reads the communique.
The Commission further expressed concern about the security situation in Cabo Delgado Province in Mozambique and called for the unconditional removal of the illegal economic sanctions imposed on Zimbabwe.
It also noted Zimbabwe’s policy of engagement and re-engagement and concerted solidarity efforts from SADC and friendly countries.
