TZ urges SADC to walk the talk

DAR ES SALAAM: TANZANIA has called on Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states to uphold the region’s tradition and renew their commitment to fulfilling the bloc’s objectives, not only in words but in concrete action.

The country also reaffirmed its commitment to a shared responsibility in safeguarding the region’s security, while calling for the strengthening of conflict management institutions and structures to ensure lasting peace and stability within the bloc.

Tanzania’s call was made on Friday by the Minister for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation, Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo during the conclusion of the 27th Meeting of the Ministerial Committee of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security (MCO).

The 27th MCO lasted about five days, preceded by the Standing Committee on Politics, Defence, and Security Cooperation’s session held from July 21–22 at the Julius Nyerere International Convention Centre (JNICC) in Dar es Salaam, with over 300 delegates attending.

“As we close this chapter, I wish to reaffirm our collective responsibility to promote and protect the sanctity security of our region and build resilient conflict management institutions and structures for sustainable peace and stability,” said Ambassador Kombo.

He added: “In that spirit, let us all move forward while being mindful of Mwalimu Julius Kambarage Nyerere’s saying ‘without unity, there is no future for Africa’. Let us continue to honour our tradition and recommit ourselves to realize regional objectives in words and deeds.”

The minister acknowledged all SADC member states for their support during Tanzania’s tenure as Chair of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, describing it as a great honour.

He said that the spirit of solidarity, shared vision and regional unity that has characterised the country’s leadership will continue to serve as a lasting source of inspiration as the chairmanship is handed over to the incoming leader.

Ambassador Kombo expressed Tanzania’s sincere gratitude to the ministers for their attendance and active engagement in the session, noting that their insightful deliberations have shaped the region’s course of action on issues of politics, peace and security, demonstrating a shared and enduring commitment to advancing regional stability.

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He also extended appreciation to the senior officials for their unwavering dedication in providing technical guidance on the agenda items discussed during their session, which preceded the Ministerial Committee of the Whole (MCO) meetings.

The 27th MCO serves as one of the SADC’s highest decision-making forums, being held annually in July by bringing together ministers and senior officials responsible for foreign affairs, defence, security and internal affairs from all 16 member states.