Harare, August 17, 2024 - President of the Republic of Madagascar Andry Rajoelina participated in the 44th Summit of Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), held on August 17, 2024 at the New Parliament Building in Mount Hampden, Harare, Zimbabwe.
The Summit, attended by the 16 heads of state of the SADC member countries, began with the traditional "family photo," officially kicking off the event. During the presentation of the attending Heads of State, President Andry Rajoelina was warmly applauded, testifying to the recognition of his leadership in the development of Madagascar.
SADC Executive Secretary, Elias Magosi, inaugurated the series of speeches by presenting the report on the outcomes of the 43rd summit around the theme related to sustainable development, with a particular focus on the inclusion of youth and women. He notably emphasized the importance of supporting these different groups so that they become key actors in promoting the economy and establishing lasting peace in the region.
For his part, the President of Zimbabwe and the new President of SADC, Emmerson Mnangagwa, highlighted the organization's progress in terms of solidarity among member countries, despite persistent challenges such as climate change and regional conflicts.
He also reaffirmed his commitment to strengthening unity and continuing the development of the region.
The outgoing SADC President and Angolan Head of State, João Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço, saluted the progress made in the tourism sector during the post-COVID19 period and particularly congratulated the efforts of member countries in the fight against HIV/AIDS, malaria, and cholera.
He also stressed the importance of maintaining peace and security, particularly in resolving the conflict between Rwanda and the Republic of Congo.
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At the end of the official opening ceremony, President Andry Rajoelina participated in a closed-door meeting with his fellow Heads of State, during which he addressed the impacts of climate change in Madagascar.
During the closing ceremony, it was officially announced that Madagascar will host the 45th SADC Summit in 2025. For the first time since its accession in 2005, Madagascar will take the reins of this regional organization, with President Andry Rajoelina at its head for the year 2025. "As a member of the Troika and SADC, Madagascar will provide full support to the work and challenges our organization will face throughout your term," said the Malagasy Head of State.
President Andry Rajoelina also expressed his gratitude and commitment by stating that "as the incoming Chair of the SADC Summit, I will do everything in my power to ensure that unity, peace, and solidarity continue to reign within our Region and among Member States."
Thus, this responsibility will mark a historic step for Madagascar, affirming its role as a regional leader in SADC.
