Africa-Press – Eswatini. African Union Commissioner for Agriculture, Rural Development, Blue Economy and Sustainable Environment, Moses Vilakati, who previously served as a Minister in Eswatini, continues to play a key role in advancing continental cooperation on agriculture, climate action and food security.
On the margins of African Union engagements in Addis Ababa, SADC Executive Secretary Elias M. Magosi held a courtesy meeting with Commissioner Vilakati at the African Union Commission.
Commissioner Vilakati commended SADC for progress made in implementing the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP 2020–2030), particularly its strong focus on agriculture, rural development, climate adaptation and sustainable natural resource management. He highlighted the importance of Regional Economic Communities working closely with the African Union to deliver meaningful development outcomes across Africa.
The engagement also addressed the growing impact of natural disasters such as floods and droughts across the region. Both leaders emphasised the importance of strengthening regional disaster preparedness and mobilising resources collectively to respond effectively to emergencies.
Food security and agricultural productivity featured prominently in the discussions. With many farmers still operating at subsistence level, the meeting underscored the need to accelerate support to farmers and enhance productivity. SADC reaffirmed its commitment to the Comprehensive Africa Agriculture Development Programme (CAADP), with focus areas including improving soil quality, standardising agricultural products and promoting regional agricultural value chains.
The meeting further recognised the importance of harmonising Regional Economic Community structures and fast-tracking visa regimes to support trade, movement of goods and services, and agricultural cooperation across the continent.
Magosi expressed appreciation for the engagement and emphasised that, amid increasing climate challenges, agriculture and rural development remain central to Africa’s sustainable development and long-term food security.
