HARARE — Zimbabwe’s highly anticipated hosting of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Extraordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government was overshadowed by a muted turnout, with only six of the 16 member nations represented by their leaders.
Among the few heads of state who attended were Presidents Félix Tshisekedibof the Democratic Republic of Congo, Filipe Nyusi of Mozambique, Hussein Mwinyi of Zanzibar, Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar, and Mokgweetsi Masisi of Botswana.
In contrast, other nations, including Angola, Namibia, and Seychelles, opted to send foreign ministers or ambassadors, raising questions about cohesion within the bloc.
The summit, chaired by Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, focused on the regional security situation, particularly the ongoing conflict in eastern DRC, and the Mozambique riotous conflict which emanated after the country’s elections
The SADC Mission in the Democratic Republic of Congo (SAMIDRC), deployed in December 2023, is currently under review as leaders discuss its progress toward restoring peace and paving the way for sustainable development.
Information Minister Jenfan Muswere during a briefing had said
“The Heads of State and Government from the participating countries have already confirmed attendance of the regional event. Preparations for hosting the SADC Extraordinary Summit are on course for a successful event.”
However only 6 Heads of State arrived for the Summit with Zambian President Hikainde Hichilema preferimg to host internation renowned Comedian, Steve Harvey in the capital Lusaka.
Despite the comprehensive agenda, the absence of most regional leaders has cast a shadow over the summit’s diplomatic weight.
Analysts have speculated on the reasons for the limited turnout, with some suggesting potential divisions within SADC or concerns over Zimbabwe’s handling of regional affairs.
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