The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat and the European Union (EU) Delegation to Botswana and SADC held their first quarterly meeting of the 2026/27 financial year on 28 April 2026, reaffirming their strong partnership in driving trade, development, and regional integration.
Co‑chaired by H.E. Mr. Elias Magosi, SADC Executive Secretary, and H.E. Ambassador Ms. Petra Pereyra, Head of the EU Delegation to Botswana and SADC, the meeting which was held virtually reviewed progress on EU‑funded programmes under the 2021–2027 Multiannual Indicative Programme for Sub‑Saharan Africa (MIP SSA).
The EU has mobilised €195.9 million to support ten projects across the SADC region, covering peace and security, agriculture, trade, natural resources management, digital transformation, and infrastructure development. These initiatives are already making a difference, from strengthening disaster risk management and deploying emergency response teams in Mozambique, South Africa, and Madagascar, to expanding market access and supporting regional agricultural policy.
This year also marks 10 years since the EU–SADC Economic Partnership Agreement (EPA) was signed, a landmark accord that has boosted exports, opened markets, and strengthened economic ties between Southern Africa and Europe. The EPA has been central to trade facilitation and regional integration, ensuring that businesses and communities benefit from expanded opportunities.
The SADC Executive Secretary noted that trade remains a cornerstone of regional integration, pointing out that it generates jobs, builds resilience, and drives prosperity. He stressed that cooperation with the EU is essential for the SADC region to fully unlock its potential through stronger trade systems and deeper integration. He also expressed appreciation to the EU for its continued support, saying it has strengthened institutions and created opportunities for businesses, farmers, and communities across the region.
Ambassador Pereyra underscored the EU’s commitment to shared prosperity, describing trade as a powerful engine for development and integration. She highlighted ongoing investments in strategic corridors, agriculture, and digital transformation as laying the groundwork for greater cooperation and expanded opportunities for citizens. She further thanked SADC for its leadership and dedication, noting that the EU’s support is most effective when matched by the region’s own commitment to building a stronger, more connected community.
Both sides reaffirmed their determination to shape the next phase of cooperation. The upcoming Annual Action Plan (AAP 2026) will prioritise institutional capacity building, NaturAfrica II, and efforts to combat trafficking and organised crime. With trade and integration at the core, the partnership aims to deliver even greater impact, ensuring that SADC’s citizens, businesses, and communities continue to benefit from stronger ties with Europe and a more resilient regional economy.
