Skukuza – Foreign Affairs Ministers from the Southern African Development Community (SADC) will gather at Skukuza in the Kruger National Park, Mpumalanga, South Africa, from 22 to 24 May for a high-level retreat to craft a unified regional response to shifting global dynamics.
The meeting comes as the international system faces profound transformation driven by heightened competition among major powers, technological advancement and changing economic realities. While these shifts have introduced new challenges, SADC believes they also present opportunities for member states — including the Kingdom of Eswatini — to deepen integration, accelerate industrialisation and strengthen their collective voice internationally.
South Africa’s International Relations and Cooperation Minister Ronald Lamola will officially open the retreat in his capacity as Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers. 
“The Retreat will enable Ministers to reflect on the implications of these changes and to chart a unified course that safeguards stability while advancing regional development,” SADC said in a statement.
Discussions will build on SADC’s long-term strategic frameworks, including Vision 2050 and the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP 2020–2030), with a focus on practical and forward-looking solutions.
Key agenda items include infrastructure development, transport and logistics, the free movement of people, goods and services, industrialisation, regional value chains and trade, as well as energy, oil, gas and mineral resources.
Food security, agricultural supply chains, financing regional integration, investment, debt management and domestic revenue mobilisation will also feature on the agenda.
“These themes reflect the multi-dimensional nature of contemporary geopolitical shifts and will allow Ministers to identify cross-cutting linkages and prioritise strategic interventions,” SADC said.
The regional bloc described the gathering as a critical moment, saying outcomes are expected to reinforce regional solidarity and position SADC as a proactive and influential player in shaping the future global order.
“By embracing dialogue, unity, and foresight, Ministers of Foreign Affairs will chart a path that safeguards regional stability and unlocks new opportunities for growth and prosperity,” the statement read.
