Mnangagwa going to Botswana

President Emmerson Mnangagwa is set for a packed itinerary today as he makes his maiden visit to the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat Headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana, since assuming the Chairmanship of the regional bloc. The visit underscores Zimbabwe's leadership role in shaping the region's future during his tenure.

President Mnangagwa will meet with Secretariat staff, receive the recently purchased SADC Secretariat Headquarters Building, and preside over the groundbreaking ceremony for the SADC Standby Force Regional Logistics Depot (RLD). These activities reflect his commitment to driving regional integration and enhancing the bloc's capacity for peace and humanitarian support.

Upon arrival, the President will be welcomed by SADC Executive Secretary Mr. Elias Magosi and will sign the guest book. He will then tour the Julius Nyerere SADC Library, showcasing the bloc's historical archives, and unveil the Visiting Placard commemorating his visit.

President Mnangagwa will engage with the SADC Management team, where Deputy Executive Secretary for Corporate Affairs Dr. Judith Kateera will brief him on the Secretariat's mandate, functions, and structure. Key issues to be discussed include SADC's regional integration priorities, emerging challenges, and strategic recommendations.

As Chair, the President is expected to provide policy direction on the implementation of the bloc's programs and address staff on the importance of collective efforts in achieving SADC's vision.

A highlight of the visit will be the ceremonial handover of the SADC Secretariat Headquarters Building. Previously managed under a Public-Private-Partnership (PPP) involving Bongwe Investments Proprietary Limited and the Botswana Government, the building will now officially belong to the regional bloc.

The handover symbolizes SADC's commitment to strengthening its institutional infrastructure for enhanced regional coordination.

Accompanied by Botswana President Duma Boko, President Mnangagwa will later oversee the groundbreaking ceremony for the Regional Logistics Depot at Rasesa village, 40km from Gaborone. The depot will serve as a storage hub for materials, equipment, and supplies for the SADC Standby Force during peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.
Ambassador Mukonoweshuro: "Preparations in Place"

Zimbabwe's Ambassador to Botswana, Henry Mukonoweshuro, confirmed that preparations for the visit were complete. "The SADC Secretariat and the host country have ensured that all logistics are in place. We are ready to welcome His Excellency," he said in an interview.

During his tenure as SADC Chair, President Mnangagwa aims to advance the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP 2020-2030) and SADC Vision 2050. These strategic plans focus on industrial development, market integration, infrastructure support for regional integration, and social and human capital development.

With this visit, President Mnangagwa is reaffirming Zimbabwe's commitment to driving SADC's agenda and fostering unity, peace, and economic development across Southern Africa.