SADC prioritizes regional value chains, investment, new technologies to advance industrialization goals

DURBAN: THE Southern African Development Community (SADC) member states have committed to accelerating industrial transformation across the region by strengthening regional value chains, boosting investment and embracing innovation and new technologies.

The commitment was made at the conclusion of the ninth SADC Industrial Week (SIW 2026), held at the Durban International Convention Centre in KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, where delegates highlighted the need for stronger cooperation between governments and the private sector to drive industrial growth.

Speaking at the closing, SADC Finance and Investment Promotion Agency Chief Executive Officer Zwelibanzi Sapula said the meeting found that while the region is endowed with vast natural resources, a growing number of entrepreneurs and significant market opportunities, the industrial sector has not yet fully contributed to adding value to these resources.

“Developing integrated regional value chains through collaboration in agriculture, mining, pharmaceuticals, automotive manufacturing, textiles and chemicals are critical in increasing value addition and improving the competitiveness of SADC industries,” he said.

ALSO READ: CTI calls for improvements in business environment and infrastructure

Delegates also emphasised the importance of digital transformation, green economy initiatives, artificial intelligence and emerging technologies, saying these developments are rapidly changing global production systems and require increased investment in digital and green infrastructure, innovation systems, research and technology transfer.

Agriculture was identified as a key pillar in driving industrialisation, with calls to strengthen agro-processing industries to improve food security, increase exports and create more employment opportunities, particularly for women and young people.

The region’s wealth of critical minerals was also highlighted as a strategic opportunity to reposition Southern Africa in global industrial value chains by moving away from exporting raw materials and focusing on processing, value addition and local manufacturing.

The SIW 2026 discussions reaffirmed SADC’s commitment to building a more competitive industrial base capable of supporting sustainable economic growth and improving livelihoods across the region.