By Tandzile Dlamini
MBABANE – The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has taken bold steps to strengthen trade and investment across the region.
This follows a Trade, Industry, Finance and Investment (TIFI) Thematic Group meeting held at the SADC Headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana.
The high-level gathering brought together SADC institutions such as the SADC Secretariat, SADC Accreditation Services (SADCAS), and the SADC Development Finance Resource Centre (SADC-DFRC), alongside International Cooperating Partners (ICPs).
Driving Regional Growth
The main agenda focused on reviewing progress and enhancing cooperation under the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP 2030–2050). The meeting was co-chaired by Ms. Simone Goetz, Head of Cooperation at the German Embassy in Botswana; Mr. Sadwick L. Mtonakutha, SADC Director of Finance, Investment and Customs; and Mr. Dhunraj Kassee, SADC Director of Industrial Development and Trade.
A highlight of the discussions was the introduction of the Multi-Year Action Plan (MYAP) 2025–2029, which sets ambitious goals to improve trade facilitation, industrial development, financial integration, and investment promotion. The MYAP focuses on three key clusters:
- Trade and customs
- Industry and standards
- Macroeconomic, financial, and investment cooperation
The plan also tackles persistent challenges, including slow industrialisation, declining manufacturing value-added, and low intra-SADC trade. It further aims to speed up the operationalisation of the SADC Regional Development Fund.
Strengthening Value Chains
Progress on the Regional Leather Value Chain was reviewed, with special emphasis on policy harmonisation and value addition to boost industrial competitiveness. The meeting also reflected on negotiations for the SADC Free Trade Area (FTA), the Tripartite Free Trade Area (TFTA), and the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), all vital instruments for expanding market access.
Delegates reaffirmed their commitment to advancing these agreements more rapidly, recognising their potential to transform Africa’s trade landscape.
Building a Resilient Future
The gathering underscored the importance of inclusive, sustainable, and climate-resilient growth, especially in the face of changing global trade dynamics. The next TIFI Thematic Group meeting will be held in May 2026, where member states will evaluate progress on the new Multi-Year Action Future.
Positive Outlook for Eswatini
For Eswatini, the outcomes of this meeting bring exciting prospects. Stronger regional coordination and new opportunities for investment and trade are expected to benefit local businesses and industries, opening doors to broader markets and fostering sustainable economic growth.
Courtesy Pics)
