As we approach the 44th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit, there are increasing efforts by some to prevent Zimbabwe from hosting the event and President Mnangagwa from becoming the chair. Joseph Kalimbwe, an activist from Zambia’s ruling UPND party, has been very active on social media, calling for a “neutral” venue, suggesting Johannesburg or Windhoek as alternatives. Kalimbwe claims that Malawians have joined the call for a venue change, citing concerns from Zambia and Malawi about President Mnangagwa’s recent conversation with Russian President Vladimir Putin. At the same time, a group of Zimbabwean activists are working on a petition to stop SADC from holding the summit in Zimbabwe, arguing that the country’s elections were not endorsed by Dr. Nevers Mumba led SEOM.
However, those opposing the summit in Zimbabwe should understand that SADC’s decision to host the event in Zimbabwe and allow President Mnangagwa to assume the chairmanship shows their recognition of his legitimacy. SADC is well-informed and cannot be swayed by biased reports created in Western embassies aimed at undermining ZANU PF. The election issue is settled, and both SADC and Zimbabwe are now focusing on economic growth and improving citizens’ lives.
The calls for a venue change seem to be fueled by anger over President Mnangagwa’s straightforward comments during his conversation with President Putin. He spoke openly about the West’s, particularly the US’s, consolidation of power in Zambia, which hosts AFRICOM. Even Zambian citizens, including MP Kampyongo, have voiced concerns about having a US military base, with Kampyongo asking in Parliament if the government would reconsider hosting AFRICOM given that other SADC member states, including Zimbabwe, share similar concerns.
No amount of protest from detractors will change SADC’s decision. Preparations for the Harare Summit are almost complete, with infrastructure development such as roads, ICT systems, and accommodations nearing completion. The Government is building 18 state-of-the-art villas, upgrading major hotels, and renovating the Harare International Conference Centre, which now features modern ICT equipment and a 4,500-seat conference hall. These efforts should convince critics that their objections are unfounded and misguided.
The investment conference is expected to attract over 150 companies and 300 participants, with a special pavilion showcasing regional investment promotion agencies. If any SADC country decides to boycott the summit, it is their right. They can choose to attend NATO conferences instead.
