PRESIDENT RAMAPHOSA APPLAUDS ETHEKWINI FOR SUCCESSFUL HOSTING OF SADC SUMMIT
- 3 days ago
- 2 min read
By: Ethekwini Municipality
President Cyril Ramaphosa has commended eThekwini Municipality for successfully hosting the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit, reaffirming Durban's status as a premier destination for major international events.
Held at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre from 3 to 17 August 2026, the summit brought together Heads of State and Government, ministers, delegates, media representatives, and invited guests from across the region under the theme: "Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World."
The President's acknowledgment underscores the City's ability to host high-profile international gatherings while delivering a safe, seamless, and world-class experience.
Working closely with law enforcement agencies and key stakeholders, the City ensured the summit was conducted safely and without incident, providing a secure environment for all participants.
As SADC's highest decision-making structure, the Summit sets the strategic direction for regional cooperation, integration, and development. The regional bloc comprises 16 member states and represents a population of more than 400 million people.
South Africa officially assumed the SADC Chairship for a one-year term during the summit, with President Ramaphosa taking over from Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.
Reflecting on the significance of the gathering, President Ramaphosa reminded delegates that Durban occupies a special place in Africa's history. “It was in Durban, 24 years ago, that the African Union was officially launched, marking the continent's transition from the struggle against colonialism and apartheid towards deeper cooperation, integration, and development,” he said.
The eThekwini Municipality Mayor, Councillor Cyril Xaba, said the City's selection as host demonstrates growing confidence in Durban's capabilities as a globally competitive destination.
"Hosting SADC was about more than delivering a successful event. It stimulated local economic activity, strengthened regional partnerships, and enhanced eThekwini's profile as a destination for tourism, trade, and investment," said Xaba.
The summit programme included several key engagements across the city, including SADC Industrialisation Week, a public lecture by President Ramaphosa, and a wreath-laying ceremony in honour of struggle stalwart Oliver Reginald Tambo.
The ceremony paid tribute to Tambo's enduring legacy and reaffirmed the values of freedom, democracy, and African unity that he championed throughout his life.
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