Africa-Press – Mozambique. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has underscored the urgent need for cooperation among its member states to address challenges related to water and energy accessibility.
This call was made by Angele Makombo N’Tumba, SADC’s Deputy Executive Secretary for Regional Integration, during the 43rd Joint Meeting for Ministers Responsible for Energy and Water, held in Harare, Zimbabwe, from June 30 to July 4, 2025.
Below is a comprehensive analysis of the meeting’s agenda, the role of Eswatini’s delegation, the key topics discussed, and the expected outcomes for regional cooperation.
Purpose and Objectives of the Meeting
The 43rd Joint Meeting serves as a strategic platform for SADC member states to:
Foster a spirit of collaboration and constructive dialogue.
Reach consensus on a unified, actionable plan for advancing the regional energy and water agenda.
Align regional strategies with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly those related to water and energy.
The meeting brings together senior officials and experts from across the region, including Eswatini’s Ministry of Natural Resources and Energy, to exchange knowledge, establish partnerships, and develop action plans that support sustainable development
Role and Contributions of Eswatini’s Delegation
Eswatini’s delegation, led by Principal Secretary Lindiwe Mbingo and including key officials from the energy and water sectors, played a significant role in the meeting. They include Director of Energy Thabile Nkosi, Director of Water Affairs Makhosini Khoza, Eswatini Electricity Company Managing Director Ernest Mkhonta,Eswatini Energy Regulatory Authority CEO Sikhumbuzo Tsabedze, representatives of Eswatini Water Services Corporation, Komati Basin Water Authority, and Incomati and Maputo Watercourse Commission. Their contributions include:
Actively participating in the formulation and promotion of regional strategies for sustainable water and energy management.
Engaging in discussions that align with the SDGs, emphasizing sustainable practices and regional cooperation.
Sharing insights and experiences relevant to Eswatini’s context, thereby helping to shape pragmatic solutions for the region
By participating in these discussions, Eswatini is helping to pave the way for more integrated and sustainable management of critical resources across the SADC region.
Key Topics Discussed
(a) Energy Sector
Energy Security:
The meeting addressed the performance of the regional electricity market, development of a sustainable regional power sector plan, financing for transmission infrastructure, and the removal of trade barriers in the Southern African Power Pool (SAPP) markets. Ensuring reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy supply is a top priority.
Energy Sector Regulation:
Delegates discussed regulatory frameworks for energy markets across Eastern and Southern Africa and the Indian Ocean Region, with a focus on enhancing regulatory oversight and harmonization
Renewable Energy:
The operationalization of the SADC Centre for Renewable Energy and Energy Efficiency (SACREEE) was a focal point. The meeting emphasized the need to develop and adopt new and renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydropower, to ensure sustainable energy systems and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.
Oil and Gas Subsector:
Discussions included the transition to cleaner fuels (e.g., low sulphur diesel) and the development of a regional natural gas master plan, supporting the shift towards a more sustainable and diversified energy mix.
Just Energy Transition:
Ministers explored strategies for a just energy transition, balancing sustainable development with energy security, and ensuring that no community is left behind in the shift to cleaner energy
Sustainable Energy Week:
Preparations for the SADC Energy Sustainable Energy Week, aimed at promoting awareness and innovation in sustainable energy, were also discussed
(b)Water Sector
Regional Water Projects:
The meeting assessed progress on projects aimed at improving water and sanitation services across SADC member states
Transboundary Water Projects:
River Basin Organisations and Shared Water Institutions presented updates on transboundary water projects, highlighting both achievements and ongoing challenges
Groundwater Programs:
The status of SADC groundwater programs and livelihood grant projects was reviewed, with a focus on sustainable groundwater management.
Climate Resilience:
Delegates explored progress on climate resilience projects, including the World Bank Regional Climate Resilience project, to enhance the region’s ability to adapt to climate change
Hydrological Observation System:
The SADC Hydrological Cycle Observation System was discussed, emphasizing the importance of monitoring and predicting hydrological changes for better water management.
Water Policy Review:
The SADC Water Policy was reviewed, with the aim of enhancing the effectiveness and impact of water management policies throughout the region
Expected Outcomes for Regional Cooperation
The meeting is expected to yield several important outcomes for the SADC region:
Enhanced Regional Cooperation and Integration:
Strengthening frameworks for joint management and development of shared water and energy resources, leading to more efficient and sustainable use.
Policy Harmonization and Joint Initiatives:
Agreements on harmonizing policies and regulations across member states to facilitate joint projects and address common challenges such as energy security and water scarcity.
Investment in Renewable Energy and Infrastructure:
Commitments to increase investment in renewable energy sources and infrastructure, supporting the transition to cleaner energy and improved energy security.
Capacity Building and Knowledge Sharing:
Emphasis on training, workshops, and collaborative research to enhance technical and managerial capabilities across the region
Development of Transboundary Water Management Strategies:
Strategies for equitable and sustainable management of shared water resources, optimizing reservoir releases, and ensuring fair distribution among member states.
Public-Private Partnerships and Financing Mechanisms:
Encouragement of public-private partnerships and innovative financing to mobilize resources for large-scale projects in the water and energy sectors.
Next Steps and Policy Impact
The outcomes of the meeting will be presented to the SADC Council of Ministers, who will further deliberate and communicate the results to the Heads of State. This process ensures that the collective voices and priorities of the region’s leaders guide the development of sound policies and strategies for water and energy, driving progress and prosperity for all member states
Conclusion
The SADC 43rd Joint Meeting for Ministers Responsible for Energy and Water represents a pivotal moment for regional cooperation. By addressing critical issues such as energy security, renewable energy integration, and sustainable water management, and by fostering collaboration among member states—including active participation from Eswatini—the region is taking concrete steps toward achieving its sustainable development goals and ensuring a resilient future for all its people.
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