SADC and U.S. Strengthen Partnership Following Inaugural Dialogue Forum

In Antananarivo, Madagascar, SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi met with Melanie Higgins, Assistant Secretary for African Affairs at the U.S. Department of State, and Ambassador Howard Van Vranken, U.S. Ambassador to Botswana and Special Representative to SADC. The meeting took place on the sidelines of the 45th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit of Heads of State and Government.

The discussions followed the inaugural SADC-USA Senior Officials Dialogue Forum held on 13 August 2025. Both parties reaffirmed their commitment to sustained engagement and collaboration on peace and security, economic development, trade, investment, health cooperation, and sustainable development.

The dialogue emphasized strengthening partnerships at multiple levels. Participants highlighted the importance of collaboration not only between the SADC Secretariat and the United States Government but also bilaterally with individual SADC Member States. Key priorities were identified, and both sides expressed determination to build on the momentum generated by the inaugural forum.

The forum provided a platform to refine cooperation frameworks, promoting stronger institutional ties and enhanced collaboration across sectors. SADC and the United States committed to translating discussions into concrete actions that deliver tangible benefits for citizens in the SADC region and the United States.

The meeting reflects the growing strategic partnership between SADC and the United States. It highlights shared goals in regional stability, economic growth, and sustainable development, signaling a commitment to deepening cooperation in key sectors across Southern Africa.