The Southern African Development Community (SADC) will hold its 45th Ordinary Summit of Heads of State and Government on 17 August 2025 at the Ivato Conference Center in Antananarivo, Madagascar. This event is significant for Madagascar, as it marks the 20th anniversary of its membership in SADC, which began in August 2005.
The Summit will take place under the theme, “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC.” It aims to advance regional integration by strengthening industrial capacity, modernizing agriculture, and promoting inclusive energy transitions to build a resilient and sustainable regional economy.
At the event, President Andry Rajoelina of Madagascar will officially take over the Chairpersonship of SADC from President Emmerson Mnangagwa of Zimbabwe. This transition symbolizes a new phase of leadership within the regional bloc.
Leaders will assess the progress of the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030 and evaluate the outcomes of the previous summit’s theme on promoting innovation for economic growth. Additionally, they will consider the report from the Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation.
The Summit is the highest decision-making body in SADC and plays a key role in shaping the regional agenda. The Opening and Closing Ceremonies will be broadcast live via the official platforms of the Republic of Madagascar and SADC, including the SADC Facebook page and YouTube channel.
Preparatory meetings and media coordination will take place ahead of the Summit, facilitated by both the SADC Secretariat and the Government of Madagascar.
