Tanzania commits to regional security

HARARE, ZIMBABWE: MINISTER for Foreign Affairs and East African Cooperation Ambassador Mahmoud Thabit Kombo has underscored the nation’s dedication to maintaining peace and security within the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region.

He made the commit ment during the Meeting of the Ministerial Committee of the Organ (MCO) on Poli tics, Defence and Security Cooperation of the Southern African Development Community (SADC), held yesterday in Harare, Zimbabwe.

Addressing the gather ing, Minister Kombo highlighted Tanzania’s prioritisation of strengthening defence and security not only within the regional bloc but also on the broader African and global stages.

He emphasised Tanza nia’s commitment to sup porting regional and interna tional peace efforts, noting that the country is prepared to contribute financially to these endeavours.

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“We are sincerely com mitted to supporting regional and international efforts on issues related to peace and security. We believe our experience will enable us to contribute effectively to the role of the Security Council,” Minister Kombo stated.

In addition, Minister Kombo sought continued backing from SADC countries for Tanzanian candidates, including Dr Faustine Ndugulile, who is contesting the position of Director of the World Health Organisation (WHO) Africa.

He also requested support for Tanzania’s bid for a seat on the United Nations Human Rights Council for the 2026–2028 term and a non-permanent seat on the United Nations Security Council for the 2029–2030 term.

The meeting followed a preparatory session held on August 15, 2024, by Permanent Secretaries.

Both meetings set the stage for the Summit of Heads of State and Govern ment of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security, taking place today whereby President Samia Suluhu Hassan is set to assume the Chairpersonship of the organ.

Chairperson of the Organ’s Ministerial Committee and Minister for Foreign Affairs of Zambia Dr Mulambo Haimbe opened the session by emphasising the importance of collective efforts to address regional security issues and achieve the SADC’s objectives.

Discussions included the security situation in the re gion, strengthening democracy, honouring SADC’s founding leaders and review ing candidates for regional and international positions.

Tanzania reaffirmed its commitment to active par ticipation in SADC activities and adherence to its financial obligations, demonstrating its dedication to advancing regional goals.

This declaration was made at the SADC Council of Ministers’ meeting, which concluded on August 14, 2024.