Zimbabwe is set to host a Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extra-Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government in Harare from November 16th to 20th, 2024. The summit aims to address key regional issues, with a focus on recent political developments and ongoing elections in the region.
The announcement was made during a cabinet briefing yesterday. His Excellency President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who currently chairs the regional bloc, will lead the four-day summit. Leaders across the region will look to President Mnangagwa for guidance as they address political events and election-related matters.
Recent elections in Mozambique and Botswana, as well as upcoming elections in Mauritius and Namibia on November 10th and 27th, respectively, have added urgency to the summit’s agenda. Botswana recently held peaceful elections, with former President Dr. Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi graciously conceding defeat. However, in Mozambique, the ruling party FRELIMO won with 70.7% of the vote, but the opposition has disputed the results, alleging electoral malpractice. The disputed outcome has led to demonstrations and property damage in parts of Mozambique.
Reports indicate that while FRELIMO is open to dialogue, the opposition has yet to commit to discussions. SADC, which has been closely monitoring the situation, is prepared to step in to facilitate a resolution.
Preparations for the upcoming summit are well underway, building on Zimbabwe’s successful hosting of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government in August. This extra-ordinary summit will provide a platform for SADC leaders to address these pressing issues, allowing member states to refocus on the region’s development agenda.
