Africazine:
The South African government is set to reassess its engagement strategy with the SADC region.
On February 26, 2026, Minister Ronald Lamola will address a Strategic Reflection Workshop hosted by DIRCO and UNISA. This event marks 30 years since South Africa joined the SADC and aims to critically engage with regional issues while aligning with national development goals.
South Africa’s Strategic Reflection on SADC Engagement
The workshop will provide a platform for discussions on various issues affecting the SADC region. It aims to develop a renewed South African Engagement Strategy that aligns with the vision of the National Development Plan (NDP) 2030. The focus will be on reviewing South Africa’s policy positions within the context of regional integration.
Participants will assess the implications of these policies on the country’s national interests. This strategic reflection is crucial as it comes at a time when regional cooperation is more important than ever.
South Africa: Key figures on Strategic Engagement
- 30 years since joining the SADC
- Date of the workshop: Thursday, 26 February 2026
- Time: 09:00
Context of the Workshop and Its Importance
The workshop is not just a celebration of a milestone but a critical engagement on the future of South Africa’s role in the SADC. It reflects a commitment to regional integration and cooperation, which are essential for addressing shared challenges.
By aligning the engagement strategy with the Medium-Term Development Plan (MTDP) 2024-29, South Africa aims to ensure that its policies are proactive and responsive to the needs of the region.
Next Steps for South Africa’s Engagement Strategy
- Minister Lamola’s address will be delivered virtually on Microsoft Teams.
- Media members are invited to attend the workshop.
South Africa is taking significant steps to redefine its engagement with the SADC region.
