Foreign Affairs ministers from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) are expected to convene a retreat at the Kruger National Park in Mpumalanga to chart a unified regional response to global geopolitical shifts.

The retreat will run from May 22nd to the 24th.

SADC Spokesperson Barbara Lopi told NBC News that the retreat has been motivated by changes in the international system.

She said the globe is undergoing a profound transformation, marked by heightened competition among major powers, rapid technological advances, and shifting economic dynamics.

While these developments have introduced new uncertainties, Lopi said these evolving challenges also present opportunities for the region.

In the midst of this, SADC could strengthen its resilience, deepen integration, and amplify its collective influence in global affairs.

"The retreat will build on these frameworks by fostering dialogue that is frank, solution-orientated, and forward-looking. By doing so, it will ensure that the region not only mitigates risks but also leverages emerging opportunities to accelerate industrialisation, enhance trade, and secure sustainable growth. The discussions will be structured around five key thematic areas that are central to SADC's future. These include infrastructure, transport and logistics, and the free movement of people, goods, and services; industrialisation, value chains, and trade."

SADC's long-term frameworks, including Vision 2050 and the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan 2020-2030, provide a strong foundation for navigating external pressures.