The South African Minister of International Relations and Cooperation, Ronald Lamola, highlighted the direct consequences faced by the South African region due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East. Speaking at the Inter-Departmental Workshop on the RISDP 2020–2030 in Pretoria, Lamola emphasized the global economic shockwaves resulting from the US-Israel war on Iran and Lebanon. These repercussions include rising oil prices, increased fertilizer costs, and challenges related to the cost of living.
Lamola pointed out that these effects are exacerbated by existing issues such as unemployment, climate-related disruptions, food insecurity, and the burden of communicable and transboundary animal diseases. He noted that these challenges are further complicated by the heavy debt burdens carried by many countries in the region. As South Africa assumes the SADC leadership, Lamola stressed the importance of considering these conditions in their planning and prioritization strategies.
The minister also drew attention to the modest growth rates and fluctuating intra-regional trade levels across the region. In conclusion, Lamola posed critical questions to the workshop participants regarding building public confidence in regional integration and planning for South Africa’s Chairship amidst a global environment characterized by instability and economic pressures. He urged public servants to reflect on these questions from their unique perspectives.
South Africa, appointed as the interim chair of SADC in November 2025, is set to officially take over the chairship from August 2026 to August 2027.
