President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah has returned from the 45th SADC Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Governments in Madagascar.

The Summit addressed critical issues, notably the recent US tariff challenges impacting the region.

Press Secretary Jonas Mbambo described the 45th SADC Ordinary Summit as both successful and fruitful. 

He noted that President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah delivered a compelling speech, focusing on food security, youth unemployment, industrialisation, and technological innovation.

In response to the recent tariffs imposed by the United States on certain African nations, Mbambo confirmed that SADC leaders reached consensus on several key measures. 

Leaders, Mbambo noted, resolved to adopt a unified regional response to the US-imposed tariffs, rather than pursuing individual national strategies.

The Summit also underscored the urgent need to enhance intra-SADC trade by removing barriers to the free movement of goods and services and by accelerating the ratification of key SADC protocols on trade, industry and trade in services.

Mbambo further highlighted that leaders reaffirmed the importance of industrialisation and value addition to the region's raw materials to reduce dependency on external markets and safeguard against global economic shocks.

The Summit also highlighted agriculture as key to food security and self-sufficiency, urging member states to adopt regional strategies that boost productivity and climate resilience. 

Focus areas include climate-smart agriculture, irrigation, post-harvest efficiency and the regional blue economy, priorities that align with President Nandi-Ndaitwah's agenda since taking office.