Pretoria: Southern African Development Community (SADC) Executive Secretary Elias Magosi has emphasized the critical role of the bloc's Organ Troika for Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation in maintaining peace and promoting regional prosperity. Magosi delivered opening remarks at a Troika meeting in Durban ahead of the 46th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government of the SADC.

According to South African Government News Agency, Magosi highlighted the importance of collective efforts to safeguard peace, strengthen democracy, and advance sustainable development in Southern Africa. He described the SADC Organ as a cornerstone of regional architecture, essential for building foundations of development, economic growth, and shared prosperity. The Organ Troika, comprising Malawi, Eswatini, and Tanzania, is one of the highest decision-making bodies in the regional bloc and focuses on the region's political and security situation.

Today's discussions will review the work of the past year, reflecting progress in peace, security, and democratic governance while identifying remaining challenges. Magosi acknowledged that these challenges require collective action, despite the region's general stability and freedom from interstate conflict. He noted the role of the SADC protocol in promoting peace, democracy, and regional integration through strengthened institutions and mechanisms.

Magosi emphasized the SADC's active role in addressing political and security developments, particularly in the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) and Madagascar. In the DRC, the M23 group's ongoing clashes with government forces have raised concerns, whereas in Madagascar, SADC has supported dialogue and national reconciliation efforts following the removal of then-President Andry Rajoelina. The planned establishment of a SADC Liaison Office underscores the commitment to these efforts.

Democratic stability remains a priority, with SADC Electoral Observation Missions deployed to several member countries to ensure credible and transparent electoral processes. Progress continues toward establishing the SADC Standby Force Regional Logistics Depot in Botswana, which will enhance response capabilities for peace support operations and emergencies.

Magosi encouraged the Troika meeting to review progress, set priorities, and strengthen collective responses to challenges and opportunities. He expressed confidence in SADC's ability to overcome adversity and advance the well-being of its people through unity, solidarity, and shared purpose.