The Southern African Development Community Administrative Tribunal (SADCAT) today, 17 April 2026, held an Extraordinary Session at its Headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana, to bid farewell to a retiring judge and swear in a newly appointed member of the Tribunal.
Honourable Justice Flavia Malata Chishimba of the Republic of Zambia was sworn in as a new Judge of the Tribunal, succeeding Honourable Justice Sanji M. Monageng of the Republic of Botswana, who retired following her distinguished service to SADCAT.
SADCAT is mandated to resolve employment and administrative disputes within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) and its institutions. Through this role, the Tribunal plays an important part in promoting fairness, accountability and administrative justice within SADC institutions.
The swearing-in ceremony took place during the session held at the SADCAT Chambers and was presided over by the President of the Tribunal, Honourable Judge Adelino Fernando Costa Muhongo of the Republic of Angola.
In his remarks, Honourable Judge Muhongo expressed gratitude to the judges for their exemplary service since taking the oath of office. He commended their dedication, professionalism and commitment to upholding justice within SADC, noting that their contributions continue to strengthen administrative accountability, promote fairness and uphold the rule of law within SADC institutions.
Honourable Judge Muhongo also described the sitting as both happy and emotional, as it marked the retirement of Honourable Justice Monageng. He paid tribute to her distinguished service, acknowledging the vast experience she brought to the Tribunal and, on behalf of his fellow judges, extended sincere appreciation for her dedication and commitment.
In her farewell remarks, Honourable Justice Monageng expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve the Tribunal and reaffirmed her belief in SADCAT’s important role in advancing administrative justice. She encouraged the Tribunal to continue strengthening its mandate and uphold the principles of independence, professionalism and integrity.
Welcoming the newly appointed Judge, Honourable Judge Muhongo noted that Honourable Justice Chishimba brings a wealth of experience that will further strengthen the Tribunal as it continues to fulfil its mandate.
Honourable Justice Chishimba expressed appreciation for the confidence placed in her appointment and reaffirmed her commitment to supporting the Tribunal’s work within SADC institutions.
Honourable Justice Chishimba was appointed by the SADC Council of Ministers during its meeting held in August 2024 in Harare, Republic of Zimbabwe.
The composition of the Tribunal is in fulfilment of the SADCAT Statute, under Article V, which stipulates that the Tribunal shall comprise seven (7) judges.
The Judges of the Tribunal are:
Honourable Judge Adelino Fernando Costa Muhongo
Honourable Judge Albano Macie
Honourable Judge Rodgers Foroma Manyangadze
Honourable Judge Flavia M. M. Chishimba
Honourable Judge Gaitree J. Manna
Honourable Judge Latifa M. Alhinai
Honourable Judge Mumcy M. Dlamini
Honourable Justice Sanji M. Monageng (Retired)
The occasion was also attended by Mr. Hobby M. Simuchile, representing the SADC Executive Secretary, Mr. Elias M. Magosi, Dr. Kuda Tshiamo-Kgati, Secretary of SADCAT and other invited dignitaries.
SADCAT was established by a Resolution of the SADC Summit held in Gaborone, Republic of Botswana, on 18 August 2015, pursuant to Articles 9(2) and 10(6) of the SADC Treaty. The Tribunal has jurisdiction to hear and determine labour disputes between the SADC Secretariat or any of its institutions, as employer, and its employees, including disputes relating to contracts of employment and terms of appointment.
The Tribunal is headed by an elected Judge-President and Vice-President, who are supported by the Tribunal Secretariat.
