Migration Tops Agenda As SADC Leaders Gather

Migration is expected to be a major issue as leaders of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) gather in Durban, South Africa, for the bloc’s 46th Ordinary Summit on Monday.

The meeting at the Durban International Convention Centre will bring together leaders from the 16-member regional bloc to discuss migration, peace, security, and other challenges affecting Southern Africa.

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa is expected to address the summit before formally taking over as SADC chair, a position he will hold until August 2027.

Ramaphosa has called on member states to address the conditions that force people to leave their home countries, amid growing tensions over migration in South Africa.

Thousands of foreign nationals have left the country in recent months following anti-immigrant protests and campaigns targeting undocumented migrants.

Lesotho’s government has said migration is an issue affecting the entire SADC region and should be addressed collectively by member states.

Security has been increased in Durban ahead of the summit as anti-undocumented immigration groups plan demonstrations. Activists from March and March and Operation Dudula are expected to march and present their grievances to regional leaders.

KwaZulu-Natal police spokesperson Robert Netshiunda said the protesters would be allowed to march but would be kept away from the summit venue to protect visiting leaders and delegates.

African Union Commission Chairperson Mahmoud Ali Youssouf is also expected to address the summit.

SOURCE: TRTAfrika