Durban, South Africa – His Majesty King Mswati III has assumed the chairmanship of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation, commonly known as the SADC Organ Troika.
The King took over the regional position ahead of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government, which is being held at the King Albert Luthuli International Convention Centre in Durban, South Africa.
He succeeds Malawi President Professor Arthur Mutharika, who was represented at the meeting by the country’s Second Vice President, Enock Kanzingeni Chihana. King Mswati III was represented by Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation Pholile Shakantu. 
SADC Executive Secretary Elias Magosi congratulated the King on assuming the chairmanship and said regional efforts to protect peace, strengthen democratic governance and promote sustainable development remained central to the aspirations of Southern Africa’s people.
“The SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation remains a cornerstone of our regional architecture. Through its work, we continue to strengthen peace, security, and stability across our region, which are the essential foundations upon which development, economic growth, and shared prosperity are built,” said Magosi.
“Lasting peace creates the conditions for investment, social progress, and prosperity. Equally, sustainable development reinforces peace by improving livelihoods, expanding opportunities, and strengthening the resilience of our societies,” he said.
Magosi said SADC looked forward to working with King Mswati III in advancing the region’s shared goals of peace, security, democratic governance and stability.
He also expressed appreciation to President Mutharika for his leadership during his term as chairperson. Magosi said the Organ had continued to provide strategic direction in addressing the region’s peace and security priorities under Mutharika’s stewardship.
Chihana thanked King Mswati III for making himself available to lead SADC structures, including the Troika, when other member states were unable to take up the responsibility.
He said the King had repeatedly assisted the regional body by offering his leadership and making the Kingdom of Eswatini available when called upon.
“Over the years, SADC has earned a strong reputation as a regional community committed to promoting peace, security, democratic governance and sustainable development through dialogue, solidarity and collective action. Our unity and cooperation in addressing regional challenges are among our greatest strengths and continue to underpin the stability and prosperity of our Community,” said Chihana.
He urged regional leaders to approach their discussions with openness, mutual respect and a shared sense of responsibility.
“Let us remain guided by the principles that have long defined our Community and work together to identify practical, inclusive, and lasting solutions that will strengthen peace and stability across our region,” he said.
The SADC Organ Troika also reviewed security and political developments in Madagascar, Mozambique, Tanzania and the Democratic Republic of Congo, where regional missions have been deployed.
Chihana said the security situation was being worsened by the rapid spread of an Ebola outbreak, which had claimed more than 2 000 lives.
“We commend the Republic of Angola, the Republic of South Africa and the Republic of Zimbabwe for providing financial resources to combat the outbreak,” he said.
