CYRIL RAMAPHOSA CALLS FOR FASTER SADC INTEGRATION, OPEN BORDERS, MORE TRADE AND JOB CREATION AS SOUTHERN AFRICAN LEADERS WRAP UP CRUCIAL SUMMIT IN DURBAN
President Cyril Ramaphosa has called on Southern African nations to accelerate the implementation of key regional agreements, saying the success of SADC must be measured by real improvements in the lives of ordinary citizens.
Speaking at the conclusion of the 46th SADC Heads of State and Government Summit in Durban, Ramaphosa said the region must focus on increasing electricity generation, improving infrastructure, reducing border-crossing delays, expanding trade between member states and creating jobs.
The President stressed that Southern Africa’s borders should connect people and economies rather than divide them, while urging member states to transform the region’s natural resources into economic growth and shared prosperity.
His remarks come as many countries across the region continue to face challenges including unemployment, energy shortages, slow economic growth and trade barriers that affect businesses and citizens alike.
Supporters say deeper regional cooperation could unlock investment opportunities and strengthen economic development, while critics argue that leaders must now move beyond speeches and deliver tangible results for the millions of people still struggling with poverty and unemployment.
Do you believe SADC leaders will deliver the jobs, trade growth and infrastructure improvements being promised, or is the region still moving too slowly?