COMOROS Inside Moroni SADC
SADCSAD Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 20120177 PAGE 9 PAGE 4
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PROMOTE REGIONAL CULTURAL IDENTITY SADC ANTI-CORRUPTION SUB-COMMITTEE MEETS ANGOLA’S NEW PRESIDENT INAUGURATED SADC meets on Lesotho
The SADC Double Troika (From left to right); SADC Executive Secretary - Her Excellency Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax, SADC Chairperson - His Excellency President Jacob Zuma of the Republic of South Africa, Honourable Nosiviwe Noluthando Mapisa-Nqakula - Minister of Defence and Military Veterans for South Africa and Honourable Georges Rebelo Chikoti - Minister of External Relations for Angola Exclusive coverage on SADC Double Troika on Lesotho on page 1 up to 3
WORLD TOURISM DAY - 27 SEPTEMBER 2017 - THEME “SUSTAINABLE TOURISM - A TOOL TO DEVELOPMENT” PHOTOS COURTESY OF WILDLIFEUPCLOSE Inside SADC news
SADC to deploy a Contingent Force to support Lesotho
By Barbara Lopi
The Southern African Development Community (SADC) will deploy a Contingent Force to support the Kingdom of Lesotho following the brutal assassination of Lt Gen Khoantle Motšomotšo, Commander of the Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) on 5th September 2017.
The Double Troika Summit of the Heads of State and Government of SADC which was convened on 15th September 2017 in South Africa following recent political and security developments in the Meeting in session mountain Kingdom strongly of the Ministerial Fact Kingdom following the Committee as approved by condemned the assassination Finding Mission comprised assassinations, and noted the the 37th SADC Ordinary and approved the of representatives from the volatile security situation Summit, and in the interim, deployment of a Contingent Organ Troika; Angola, and its implications for the approved an expanded Force. Zambia and Tanzania, as political stability of the mandate and composition of well as South Africa, which Kingdom of Lesotho. a total of 34 members of the The Summit received a report was dispatched to the Oversight Committee to The SADC Double Troika include military, security, Summit also urged the intelligence and civilian Kingdom to expedite experts to be deployed to investigations into the Lesotho immediately for a assassinations. period of one month.
In a Communique released at Summit commended the the end of the Summit, the Government of Angola, the Double Troika Heads of State Chairperson of the Organ on and Government and their Politics Defence and Security representatives, noted that Cooperation, H.E Eduardo there was an urgent need to Dos Santos for his prompt assist the Kingdom in action, and generosity in restoring law and order, and facilitating the fact finding a peaceful environment mission to the Kingdom of conducive to among others, Lesotho. the implementation of SADC decisions specifically, Summit thanked the Security Sector and Chairperson of SADC, H.E. Constitutional Reforms, as Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, well as the recommendations President of the Republic of of the Commission of South Africa for hosting the Inquiry. Double Troika Summit and for the warm hospitality Summit maintained the extended to all delegations. terms of reference and H.E. President Zuma composition of the Oversight
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well as the recommendations • Summit was of the Commission of convened Inquiry. following the assassination of • Summit approved the Lieutenant General deployment of a Contingent (Lt Gen) Khoantle Force comprising military, Motšomotšo, security, intelligence and Commander of the civilian experts to support Lesotho Defence Force the Government of the (LDF) on 5th September Kingdom of Lesotho, and 2017. Upon the directed the Chiefs of assassination, the Defence and Security to Chairperson of the Organ assess the requirements, on Politics Defence and determine the appropriate Security Cooperation, His size of the Contingent Force, Excellency José Eduardo dos and to prepare the modalities Santos, President of the for the deployment. Republic of Angola, immediately sent a • Maintained the terms of
People of Lesotho PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.EXPEDIA.COM Ministerial Fact Finding reference and composition of Mission to the Kingdom of the Oversight Committee as Lesotho to assess the approved by the 37th SADC Communiqué of the Double circumstances surrounding Ordinary Summit. the assassination of Lt Gen Troika Summit of SADC Motšomotšo. • In the interim, Summit approved an expanded Heads of State and • Summit strongly mandate and composition of condemned the brutal a total of 34 members of the Government on Lesotho assassination of Lt Gen Oversight Committee to Motšomotšo, and expressed include military, security, • The Double Troika Summit Angola: H.E. Hon. Georges condolences to the family of intelligence and civilian of the Heads of State and Rebelo Chikoti, Minister of the late LDF Commander, experts to be deployed to Government of the Southern External Relations and Government and people of Lesotho immediately for a African Development Special Envoy the Kingdom of Lesotho for period of one month. Community (SADC) was the assassination of Lt Gen held at OR Tambo Building, Zambia: Hon. Davis Chama Motšomotšo and urged the • Summit commended the Department of International (MP), Minister of Defence Kingdom to expedite Government of Angola, the Relations and Cooperation investigations into the Chairperson of the Organ on (DIRCO) in Pretoria, in the United Republic of Tanzania: assassinations of Brig Mahao Politics Defence and Security Republic of South Africa on H. E Sylvester. M Ambokile, and Lt. Gen Motšomotšo, the Cooperation, H.E José 15th September 2017. High Commissioner of the Chief of the LDF. Eduardo Dos Santos for his United Republic of Tanzania prompt action, and • The Double Troika Summit to the Republic of South • Summit received a report generosity in facilitating the was attended by the Africa of the Ministerial Fact fact finding mission to the following Double Troika Finding Mission and noted Kingdom of Lesotho. Heads of State and • The Right Honourable Dr. the volatile security situation Government or their Motsoahae Thomas Thabane and its implications for the • Summit thanked the representatives: Prime Minister of Kingdom political stability of the Chairperson of SADC, H.E. of Lesotho was also invited. Kingdom of Lesotho. Summit Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma, South Africa: H.E. President The Double Troika Summit also noted an urgent need to President of the Republic of Jacob Gedleyihlekisa Zuma was also attended by the assist the Kingdom of South Africa for hosting the SADC Facilitator to the Lesotho in restoring law and Double Troika Summit and Swaziland: H.M. King Kingdom of Lesotho, Deputy order, and a peaceful for the warm hospitality Mswati III President of the Republic of environment conducive to extended to all delegations. South Africa, H.E Cyril among others, the Namibia: Rt. Hon. Saara Ramaphosa and the implementation of SADC • Done at Pretoria, Republic Kuugongelwa-Amadhila, Executive Secretary of SADC, decisions specifically, of South Africa, 15th Prime Minister H.E. Dr. Stergomena Security Sector and September 2017 Lawrence Tax. Constitutional Reforms, as
SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 3 Inside SADC news
Inauguration Ceremony of President Lourenço at the Augostinho Neto Memorial, Luanda, Angola PHOTO COURTESY OF ANA/DIRCO Angola’s new president inaugurated
New Angolan President João His inauguration was Manuel Gonçalves Lourenço attended by the SADC was inaugurated in the Chairperson, President Jacob Angolan, capital Luanda on Zuma of South Africa, and 26th September 2017. other heads of state and governments from SADC During his inauguration, Member States and other President Lourenço pledged African countries. to rebuild Angola’s economy which has been devastated The 63-year-old President, by falling oil prices, and fight took over from Jose Eduardo corruption. dos Santos, who had ruled Angola for 38 years. The President Lourenço told ruling Movement for the thousands of supporters in Liberation of Angola (MPLA) Luanda he would also tackle won last month’s elections, gaping inequality in Africa’s securing the majority of the second largest oil producer. vote. The People's Movement In a 45-minute speech, for the Liberation of Angola President Lourenço said he has governed since Angola's would strive to bring in hard-fought independence reforms covering gender from Portugal in 1975, with equality, the freedom of the Dos Santos taking power in press, private enterprise and 1979. public health. H. E. President Lourenço 4 SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 Inside SADC news takes place in August this year, is ‘Partnering with the private sector in developing industry and regional value-chains’. This will focus on promoting private sector involvement in the region’s prioritised industrialisation agenda.
The World Economic Forum’s Global Competitiveness Report (2014-2015) shows that the lack of access to finance and to human capital, and underinvestment in Infrastructure, are among the main inhibitors of growth in SADC countries. With the exception of South Africa, lack of access to finance remains the most endemic issue. What is the root of the problem and how can you open up better access to finance through SADC?
The availability and appropriateness of financial products and services (access to finance) in the SADC region remains a major challenge, particularly for small and medium- sized enterprises (SMEs). The SADC Strategy on Financial inclusion and SME’s access to finance was developed to complement Member States’ Financial Inclusion Strategies for purposes of integrating and supporting Member States. Financial inclusion, if properly implemented, has the potential to address the challenge.
The root problem of lack of access to finance in the region is mainly due to low formal employment prospects, high costs of formal financial products, stringent process and requirements to access financial products as well as The power of inclusion: proximity, low financial literacy levels and trust issues with financial Dr Tax, SADC Executive Secretary institutions. To address this challenge, SADC One of the core objectives of the infrastructure finance through continues to assist Member States to Southern African Development Public-Private Partnerships (PPP). This develop programmes that will assist its Community (SADC) is to enhance the is critical as it enables the region to citizens to access financing. One flagship quality of life of people in southern mobilise the necessary resources for its programme in the region is the Making Africa through regional integration. socio- economic development in order to Access Possible programme (MAP). What role can the private sector play in improve the quality of lives of its people. MAP is a multi- country initiative to achieving this? As an engine of growth the role of the support financial inclusion through a private sector is also vital in the area of process of evidence-based analysis The private sector is considered a critical job creation in order to address the wide feeding into a financial inclusion partner and stakeholder in SADC’s spread problem of unemployment in the roadmap jointly implemented by a regional integration agenda, and in the region, and ultimately to address the range of local stakeholders. It is ongoing region’s efforts to enhance the quality of problem of poverty. To underscore the in seven countries namely Botswana, life of its people. The role of the private importance of the private sector, the DRC, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, sector is pivotal in a number of sectors, theme for the 37th SADC Summit of Swaziland and Zimbabwe. including driving industrialisation and Heads of State and Government which to page 6
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access to funding. Not only namely the PPDF and region, which ultimately The power would the RDF access Infrastructure Investment results in Member States resources on international Program for South Africa seeking finance from of inclusion capital markets but, through (IIPSA). multilateral organisations co-funding with and direct such as the African from page 5 lines of credit to investors in Given the limit to public Development Bank and the infrastructure, but would sector funding for World Bank. In order to Regarding infrastructure also assist in reducing the infrastructure development, attract investors, Member financing, the SADC region associated individual private sector funding States should continue to has, for the most part, relied country risks and crowd in becomes critical to bridge the vigorously implement on multilateral and bilateral much needed private sector gap. This therefore calls for economic and structural institutions to fund regional participation in enhancement of private reforms, adopt prudent fiscal infrastructure projects. infrastructure. Through sector involvement and and monetary policies, and enhancing project finance by creating first an take measures to improve The persistent problem of preparation and enabling and conducive their ease of doing business. accessing capital resources development, in order to environment. There is also The DFIs can play a for infrastructure bring projects to bankability need for the deployment of significant role in the development is primarily the and develop a project instruments for efficient development and lack of well-conceived and pipeline for take-up by leverage; risk mitigation; stimulation of capital properly prepared projects. investors, it is expected that mobilisation and catalysation markets, particularly To address this challenge, in the long term, the SADC of private finance, i.e. through domestic bond SADC has established the region would address the blending both public and issuance for financing much Project Preparation and challenge of private funds to bridge the needed development projects Development Facility (PPDF) underinvestment in infrastructure gap. that are aligned to national through which projects are infrastructure. development plans in the prepared and made bankable Are development finance respective SADC member in readiness for financing The SADC Regional institutions doing enough to countries. and investment. SADC has Development Fund is on the help investors drive money also finalised an agreement whole a means of (i) funding into southern Africa’s In addition, DFIs should play to establish a SADC Regional some of the region’s social highest-risk countries, a stronger subsidiary Development Fund, which and economic infrastructure particularly Angola, institution of SADC is will prioritise infrastructure needs; (ii) supporting Zimbabwe and Malawi, all testimony to SADC development and adjustment measures in less of which according to the recognising the importance industrialisation windows. developed Member States; World Bank rank lowest in of the DFIs. National DFIs and (iii) supporting the the ease of doing business under the umbrella of the A regional approach to region’s integration process scale? SADC DFI Network, coupled infrastructure development in general. SADC Member with the ongoing as embodied in the SADC States are already benefiting implementation of the Regional Development Fund for project identification and The region’s development Protocol on Finance and (RDF) and the PPDF will go a appraisal from the resources finance institutions are not Investment, whose goal is the long way to alleviate the of two major facilities, adequately resourced to deal liberalisation of the problemproblem ofof withwith thethe ever increasingincreasing investmentinvestment andand financialfinancial needs ofof the sectorssectors across thethe region, willwill seesee development financefinance institutionsinstitutions playplay an increasingincreasing role in financingfinancing infrastructureinfrastructure developmedevelopmentnt in SSADC.ADC. to page 7
SADC Secretariat Head quarters in Gaborone, Botswana
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The power of inclusion developing mobile money mining regulations to ensure evenly among member from page 6 guidelines. Member States that the mining sector states? Many southern African have adopted the guidelines contributes its due share to national currencies are to regulate their operations. fiscal revenue. There is also a The only answer to the above significantly depreciated need to foster financial scenario is through against the US dollar. How Tax revenues are a valuable inclusion and tackle the transformation of SADC is this affecting the scope for resource for development in underground economy Member States economies, more projects to be financed Africa, and both Botswana (informal sector) which through industrialisation of through local capital and Zimbabwe have hinders progress in a number the region. That is why SADC markets in the region? experienced some benefits of areas, including revenue has adopted an from foreign tax inspection collection and bank Industrialisation Strategy This would depend on the programmes in the last 18 lending/credit allocation; and Roadmap 2015-2063 projects to be financed–if months. Angola, however, is and represents an aimed at developing and they are local projects and severely under-performing opportunity cost for the transforming the industrial they are financed with the in tax collection. What can governments in revenue sector of the region including local currency–imports will be done to ensure all SADC mobilisation. development of regional and become more expensive and member countries, not just global value chains, and affect projects that use clusters. imported inputs. The impact would be on inflation, which You are the first woman to is likely to spike and the enter the position of project becomes more SADC has adopted executive secretary for expensive. SADC secretariat. You now an Industrialisation plan to mainstream gender Taking into account the in all SADC programmes. success of mobile payment Strategy and Roadmap How do you propose to do companies in other African this, especially where countries such as Kenya and 2015-2063 aimed at sourcing human capital is Nigeria, what is technology such a fundamental doing to improve people’s developing and challenge for southern lives and integrate SADC African businesses? countries? transforming the SADC has always been Mobile payments is one of industrial sector of the committed to placing gender the critical pillars of financial equality firmly on the SADC inclusion. SADC recognises region including Programme of Action and the importance and role that Community Building. Since I technology plays in the development of regional joined SADC, the institution provision of services, has leveraged existing especially in the mobile-to- regional instruments, mobile space. The SADC and global value chains, including, among others, the business model caters for SADC Protocol on Gender transfers to be initiated either and clusters and Development, the SADC by customers of mobile Gender Policy, and the SADC network operators or banks Declaration on Gender and and the funds to be available Development, and to customers of mobile some, capture adequate tax South Africa is the international agreements network operators or banks. revenues for development? dominant destination for all such as the Convention on inbound and outbound the Elimination of all Forms The proposed business There is a need for Member trade with the SADC’s of Discrimination Against models and the technical States overhaul their tax remaining member Women (CEDAW), Beijing solutions are still at a pilot administrations and revenue countries. What is being Declaration and its Platform stage. The SADC Secretariat collection processes. There is done to alleviate these of Action, the Protocol to the in collaboration with key also a need to foster financial countries’ collective African Charter on Human stakeholders has also inclusion. Those Member dependency on trade with and Peoples’ Rights on the initiated and completed a States with large mining South Africa, and how can regulatory framework by sectors should review their trading be distributed more to page 13
SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 7 STATEMENT BY SADC DEPUTY EXECUTIVE SECRETARY, DR THEMBINKOSI MHLONGO ON THE OCCASION OF WORLD TOURISM DAY sector creates demand for goods and services and in the process, catalyse the holistic development of the economy. For instance, in many tourist destinations in southern Africa, small scale business operators find ready markets for their local products such as agricultural produce and curios, while also generating employment opportunities for unskilled and semi-skilled community members, thereby promoting inclusive growth.
The SADC region is uniquely positioned to take advantage of these distinctive factors to promote its goals of economic development and Regional Integration, and ultimately poverty reduction for its citizens. The Region has unique natural features and diversity of tourism appeals ranging from rich wild fauna and flora, scenic terrestrial, aquatic ecosystems, the robust cultural heritage, historic sites, vibrant cities and sporting events. These features, couple with the peace and stability the Region enjoys, make Southern Africa one of the most attractive holiday destinations for 27th of September is the World Tourism Day. Since 1980, tourists from the across the globe. when the Statutes of the United Nations World Tourism Organization (UNWTO) entered into force, the day has Though a lot of work lies ahead, it is pleasing to note that been commemorated globally with the purpose of SADC Member States continue to step up efforts to fostering awareness among the international community improve the tourism sector by, among other things, of the importance of tourism and its social, cultural, improving the quality of service, safety standards and political and economic value. physical infrastructure as a means of attracting local and international tourists and tourism investment into the This year’s theme; “Sustainable Tourism - A tool to region. Let us make use of resources available to us, such Development”, reinforces SADC’s resolve to use tourism as the Regional Tourism Organization of Southern Africa as a vehicle for sustainable development. The 1998 (RETOSA), to improve the competitiveness of the tourism Southern African Development Community (SADC) industry in the region and to promote and market Protocol on Tourism Development advocates for the southern Africa as single but multi-faceted tourist promotion of environmentally and socially sustainable destination. By collaborative improvement of the tourism development and calls on Member States to product offer and joint delivery and marketing to trade promote the tourism industry for the improvement of and consumers, we will increase Southern Africa’s people’s livelihoods. visibility in the global tourism market, thereby increase number of visitors and investors to the region with SADC is cognisant that, if harnessed and carefully resultant benefits to individual Member States. developed, tourism can be a powerful catalyst for inclusive economic growth. Some of the tourist As we commemorate the World Tourism Day, I encourage attractions are found in the most remote areas with tourists to explore the beauty of the untapped natural limited access to essential services, supporting resources and rich culture of the SADC Region in a infrastructure and employment opportunities. Tourism responsible manner. I also encourage SADC Citizens to development and associated investment create be the ambassadors of tourist attractions and products employment thereby contributing to poverty reduction the region offers. in these areas. Let us work together in making Tourism a catalyst for SADC recognises that the growth of the tourism sector positive change and a tool for attaining all the three has concomitant effect on the growth of other sectors of dimensions of sustainable development (economic, the economy such as, accommodation, information, social and environmental), each of the 17 Sustainable communication and technology (ICT), conservation, Development Goals (SDGs) as well as SADC development agriculture, manufacturing, energy and water. Due to the priorities as stipulated in the Regional Indicative interconnectedness with these sectors, the tourism Strategic Development Plan. Inside SADC news and Accreditation of education and skills training from Angola, Botswana, Lesotho, Mauritius, Namibia, Seychelles, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and the SADC Secretariat. Representatives from United Nations Educational Cultural and Scientific Organisation TCCA participants possing for a photo (UNESCO) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO) also SADC TCCA meets and draws attended the meeting. The TCCA is a group of experts roadmap to implement SADCQF from the 15 SADC Member implementation of SADC fast-track implementation of States and is supported by The SADC Technical Qualifications Framework the four areas of the SADCQF the SADC Secretariat. Committee on Certification (SADCQF) from September namely; Development and and Accreditation (TCCA) 2017 to May 2018. They also alignment of the National It is mandated by the SADC held its meeting on 19-20 resolved that the SADC Qualifications Frameworks Ministers of Education to September 2017 in Secretariat should to the SADCQF; Quality oversee the implementation Johannesburg, South Africa communicate and engage Assurance; Verifications; and of SADCQF which plays a to, among other things with non-participating Advocacy and key role in setting the review progress on the Member States to ensure Communication. regional standard for implementation of the their involvement in the comparing qualifications decisions of the TCCA work of TCCA The TCCA meeting was obtained in SADC, thereby meeting held on 19th and attended by Chief Executive enabling easier movement of 20th April 2017. At the end of The Chairperson of the Officers and Directors of learners and workers across the meeting, TCCA members TCCA, Mr. Joe Samuels national institutions the SADC region and developed a roadmap for emphasised the need to responsible for Certification internationally. SADC Anti-Corruption Sub-Committee meets Kingdom of Swaziland convened their meeting on 20 – 22 September 2017 at the SADC Head Quarters in Gaborone, Republic of Botswana, to develop a Draft 5 Years SADC Anti-Corruption Strategic and Action Plan. When briefing the Task Team, Adv. Maemo Machethe from the SADC Secretariat’s Directorate of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs, reminded the Task Team that operationalisation of the SADC Protocol against Corruption remains key and strategic for the region. Adv. Machethe also highlighted that corruption is by its nature endemic and will continue to negatively affect national and regional development agenda if left to erode the public and private Institutions.
He emphasised that the SACC Task Group picture of committee members Team meeting to develop a Draft 5 Years SADC Anti-Corruption Strategic The SADC Anti-Corruption comprising the Republic of Botswana, and Action Plan, was pursuant to the Sub-Committee (SACC) Task Team United Republic of Tanzania and the to page 10
SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 9 Inside SADC news
South African Government through the Department of Telecommunications and Postal Services (DTPS) and Department of Communications (DOC) will be hosting the SADC meeting of Ministers responsible for Communications and ICTs from 04 – 07 September 2017 at the Fairmont Zimbali Resort, Ballito, Kingdom of KwaZulu-Natal PHOTO COURTESY OF WWW.DTPS.GOV.ZA Meeting of SADC Ministers SADC Anti- Responsible for Communications Corruption and ICT Sub-Committee By Dr. George Ah-Thew said the region needed to capitalise on the opportunities of the Fourth meets The Southern African Development Industrial Revolution for the betterment Community (SADC) Ministers of SADC Citizens by adapting to this from page 9 responsible for Communications and changing environment. Information, Communications & directive of the Ministerial Telecommunication (ICT) met on the 7th On ICT Infrastructure, Services and Committee of the Organ (MCO) on September 2017 in KwaZulu Natal Internet for all SADC Citizens by 2020, Politics, Defence and Security Province, in South Africa to review the Ministers agreed that the National Cooperation, which mandated the progress and provide guidance on the Broadband Plans in the region should be Task Team to develop the implementation of the SADC ICT aligned to the SADC 2020 broadband Anti-Corruption Strategic and Programme. Targets in order to bridge the gaps and Action Plan, in order to strengthen achieve these targets. The Member the fight against the scourge of The Meeting was held under the theme: States need to undertake a gap analysis corruption and implement the “The Fourth Industrial Revolution is of the national and cross border SADC Protocol against Corruption. here, it’s time for us and this is our broadband infrastructure and services opportunity” and was officially opened to ensure that the gaps are closed and In conclusion, the SACC Task Team by South African Minister of agreed targets are achieved by 2020. developed a Draft 5 Years SADC Communications, Hon. Ayanda Dlodlo. Anti-Corruption Strategic and Members States reemphasised the Action Plan which will be subjected The Ministers deliberated on several agreed standing policy that all to consultations by the SADC issues of importance in the Information, SADC-to-SADC Internet traffic, voice Member States. Communication and and data should remain within SADC at Telecommunication (ICT) sector; the national level and regional level Once finalised and approved, the reviewed programmes and projects, and through the National and Regional SADC Anti-Corruption Strategic made decisions on how to overcome Internet and Mobile Roaming Exchange and Action Plan will be challenges in order to smoothen of Points. Member States were also implemented through a programmes and projects. requested to domesticate the approved collaborative effort by the SADC Interconnection Policy Framework and Member States as part of Speaking on behalf of the Executive Interconnection Reference Offer. operationalising the SADC Protocol Secretary of the SADC Secretariat, the against Corruption. Acting Director of Infrastructure and to page 11 Services Directorate, Mr. Phera Ramoeli
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Ministers responsible for Communications and ICT possing for a group photo
Communications and ICT from page 10 INDUSTRIALIZATION - On the SADC Home and Away Roaming KEY IN PROMOTING (SHAR) project which started in 2007, the Ministers commended the countries which ECONOMIC GROWTH piloted the regional roaming initiative which led to lower roaming costs and urged the few remaining countries to follow the implementation of the regional initiative. The roaming cost model will be implemented within a year from today and the roam like home by SADC Citizens will be a reality much earlier before the target date of 31st December 2020.
Ministers noted the progress on e-commerce and the implementation of e-Commerce Payment Gateways and directed the SADC to liaise with the relevant stakeholders including Trade and Bankers Association and the Committee of Central Bank Governors in SADC (CCBG) to establish E-commerce Payment Gateways systems. E-Commerce provides an opportunity to SADC Citizens to shop online and have their goods delivered at home. On Cyber Security, the Ministers noted that all SADC Member States now have either transposed the SADC Harmonised Cyber Security Model Laws or have a cyber-security legal framework in place. Some are also developing their National Cyber Security Strategies.
Member States were urged to accelerate the domestication of all the SADC Harmonised Model Laws and to complete the process by December 2019. On the issues of local content that speak to the regional issues, and telling regional stories, the Ministers urged the secretariat to speed up the progress towards the establishment of the SADC TV Bouquet. ONE OF THE SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter 11 PRIORITY AREAS Issue 9, September 2017 FOR SADC Inside SADC news SADC broadcasters urged to promote the region’s cultural identity By Barbara Lopi
South Africa’s Minister of Communication Hon. Ayanda Dlodlo has urged broadcasters in the Southern African Development Community (SADC) region to produce more local stories that promote the cultural identity and heritage of the Member States in the region. The Minister was speaking during the opening remarks to the annual Broadcasting Forum jointly organized by SADC and the Southern African Broadcasting Association (SABA) which took place from 25-29 High table September, 2017, at the Gateway Conference Centre content. in Windhoek, Namibia . Mr. Stanley Similo, the Minister Dlodlo stressed that director-general of the the sourcing of local content Namibian Broadcasting should not be left in hands of Corporation, said Digital broadcasters only but should Terrestrial Television be a responsibility of every broadcasting has put stakeholder, including financial burden on the government and private broadcasters, making it sector. difficult to achieve universal coverage. Close to 200 leaders in Information Communication Similo, who is also president Technology (ICT) and of SABA, urged governments broadcasting are in the region to re-look at the participating in the forum funding strategies and whose theme is 'Strategies for models towards access to Stimulating Local Content information and to make sure Production and Creating an that broadcasters deliver Enabling Environment for services that are affordable Sustainable Telling of and connect marginalised Africa's Story.' communities.
The Permanent Secretary in Speaking on behalf of the the Namibian Ministry of SADC Secretariat, Ms Cecilia ICT, Hon. Mbeuta Mamelodi-Onyadile, the Ua-Ndjarakana urged the Senior Programme Officer for forum to come up with Communications and ICT strategies to promote the expressed hope that the creation of local content and forum will formulate how governments and other institutional mechanisms to stakeholders can get address the stimulation of involved in supporting local content creation. creation of local broadcast Minister Dlodlo 12 SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 Inside SADC news Germany Ambassador presents Letters of Credence to SADC Executive Secretary By Peter Mabaka
The new Federal Republic of Germany Ambassador to Botswana and Observer to SADC, His Excellency Ralf Breth presented his Letters of Credence to the Executive Secretary of the SADC Secretariat, Her Excellency Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax on 11th September 2017.
Ambassador Breth indicated that during his tenure, he will endeavor to strength the long standing development cooperation that exists between the Federal Republic of Germany and the SADC Region. He indicated that since the 1990's the Federal Republic of Germany has made available to SADC an estimated total amount of 400 million euros, in addition to bilateral development cooperation with eight SADC Member States.
Dr. Tax congratulated Ambassador Breth on his appointment and welcomed him to SADC and Botswana. Ambassador Breth She wished him well in his new assignment. She applauded the work volume of the SADC Success Stories as transboundary water and natural done by his predecessor, Ambassador an example. She looked forward to the resource management; climate change Rolf Ulrich, saying that during his continued partnership and cooperation. resilience; and strengthening tenure, SADC achieved a number of national-regional linkages in the SADC milestones, citing the priorities agreed The two Parties agreed to focus on areas region. The Ambassador was during the Government to Government of cooperation agreed during the accompanied by Ms. Katja Notle, negotiations held in June 2017 in Berlin SADC-Germany negotiations covering: Counsellor at the German Embassy in and the recent launch of the second regional economic integration; Botswana.
the SADC Gender and Development Index. Findings from The power of inclusion the Barometer help Member States to assess the extent of from page 7 gender balance and in decision making where to target additional efforts. Rights of Women in Africa, and the Millennium Development Goals (MDGs) to promote gender SADC is also in the process of developing the Regional mainstreaming and women’s empowerment in the region. Multidimensional Women’s Economic Empowerment The region has undertaken a review and alignment of the Programme. It is hoped that the programme will facilitate SADC Protocol on Gender and Development with the the implementation of regional and international post-2015 Sustainable Development Goals and targets, instruments in promoting gender mainstreaming and the African Union Agenda 2063 and the Beijing Declaration and empowerment of women. Platform for Action. The 2016 Barometer features the first ever Southern Africa The adoption and subsequent signing of the Revised Gender Attitude Survey and indicates that, much as we have Protocol will ascertain that all Member States commit policies, laws and budgets on gender, long-term and lasting towards enhanced gender mainstreaming. We are also change depends on changes in attitudes that continue to vigorously using the gender barometer to measure progress systematically undermine the gains we are making. in achieving gender equality in our Member States through (www.devfinance.net)
SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 13 Inside SADC news SADC Executive Secretary receives Letters of Credence from Ecuador Ambassador By Peter Mabaka
Her Excellency Ms. Maria Soledad Cordova de Valencia, Ambassador of Ecuador based in the Republic of South Africa on 11 September, 2017, presented her Letters of Credence to the SADC Executive Secretary, Her Excellency Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax. The two discussed potential areas of co-operation between the Government of Ecuador and the SADC Region.
Ambassador Cordova de Valencia said the Government of Ecuador is seeking to strengthen South Ambassador Cordova (left) and Dr. Tax cooperation, particularly in four main areas of that SADC has prioritized with proposed areas of benefit of the peoples of both cooperation namely; four main areas namely: cooperation between SADC the SADC Region and Industrialization, Tourism, Industrialization and market and Ecuador. Ecuador. The Ambassador Mining and Agriculture. She integration; infrastructure was accompanied by Ms. highlighted that her development; peace and The two Parties agreed to Marcela Rivadeneira, First government has made security; and programmes of further engage and Secretary at the Embassy of significant strides in the areas regional integration concretize areas of Ecuador in South Africa. of Health, Education and importance. These are in line cooperation for the mutual Infrastructure, adding that the Government of Ecuador is willing to share its experiences with the SADC Region.
She cited the proposal to operationalise the SADC University of Transformation in the Kingdom of Swaziland as one of the SADC initiatives that could be of interest to the Government of Ecuador.
On her part, the SADC Executive Secretary Her Excellency Dr. Tax welcomed the Ecuador Ambassador and congratulated her for her appointment. She thanked the Government of Ecuador for showing interest to cooperate with the SADC region in areas of mutual Namibian High Commissioner H.E Mbapeua Muvangua (left) met with the SADC Executive Secretary Dr. Tax at the SADC Secretariat Head interest. Dr. Tax pointed out Office in Gaborone, Botswana on the 11th of Septermber 2017 to initiate preparations for hosting the 38th SADC Summit to be heldin Windhoek, Namibia in August 2018 14 SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 Inside SADC news research and development and technology transfer as Russia and SADC to sign two well as in military training and supply of various related MOUs on cooperation equipment. Ambassador Sibilev thanked By Letso S. Mpho the Executive Secretary for her commitment in fostering The Ambassador of the the relationship and Government of the Russian cultivation of historical and Federation to the Republic of cultural affinities that exist South Africa, His. Excellency between the people of SADC Mr. Victor Sibilev, met the Region and the Russia SADC Executive Secretary Federation. Dr. Stergomena Lawrence Tax at the SADC Secretariat He indicated that the Head office in Gaborone on Government of the Russian the 5th September 2017. Federation was ready to sign the Memorandum of The parties discussed the Agreement on Basic signing arrangement for two principles of Relations and Memoranda of Cooperation which will lay a Understanding, which are foundation for thematic guided by the common groups to convene meetings aspiration of the people of and develop frameworks on SADC and Russian cooperation. Federation to strengthen friendship and mutual Dr. Tax welcomed the understanding to develop Ambassador and thanked comprehensive, equitable him and the Government of and fruitful cooperation. Russian Federation for showing interest in The SADC and the strengthening cooperation Government of Russia with SADC, and reaffirming Federation are working on commitment to the signing the two Memoranda contribution and of Understanding, on Basic improvement of the principles of Relations and economic well-being, and Cooperation as well as in the standard of living and area of Military and quality of life, freedom and Technical Cooperation, to social justice as well as peace facilitate cooperation and security of the citizens of between the two parties. the region. Ambassador Sibilev The Memorandum of Understanding on Basic principles of Relations and Cooperation focuses on cooperation on political, industrial development, trade, economic, humanitarian, scientific, technical, social, and cultural aspects, while the Military and Technical Cooperation is aimed at strengthening cooperation in the military technological and technical areas particularly in the fields (From left to right) Ambassador Sibilev, Dr. Tax and Mr. Mubita Luwabelwa who is the Director for Policy, Planning and Resource joint military production, Mobilisation at the SADC Secretariat
SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 15 Inside SADC news
People of Lesotho PHOTO COURTESY WWW.PINTEREST.COM SADC conducts technical assessment of security situation in Lesotho
By Ernest Kantchentche Christian Council of Lesotho (CCL), the conflict. The SADC Double Troika Plus Lesotho Council of NGOs (LCNGOs), the Republic of Botswana Technical Pursuant to the Double Troika Summit and representatives of opposition Assessment Mission was co-chaired by (DTS) directive of 15 September 2017, a political parties. Lt Gen Américo Valente (Republic of SADC Technical Assessment Team was Angola), representing the Chairperson deployed to the Kingdom of Lesotho to The consultative meetings were of the Organ and Brig Gen Elvis Phale assess the security situation in the officially opened by Honourable (Republic of South Africa, representing Kingdom, and determine the Habofanoe Lehana, Minister of Local the Chairperson of SADC). The mission requirements and prepare modalities for Government and Acting Minister of comprised of Senior Military, Police and deploying a multidimensional SADC Foreign Affairs and International State Security and civilian Officers from Contingent Force by 1st November, Cooperation. He was accompanied by the Republics of Angola, Botswana, 2017. Hon. Sentje Lebono, Minister of Defence Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, and National Security and other senior Zambia and the SADC Secretariat. The The Double Troika Summit decision was officials of the Government of Lesotho. Republic of Botswana participated in the made following the assassination of In his remarks, Honourable Lehana TAM in her capacity as Chair of the Lieutenant General (Lt Gen) Khoantlhe expressed gratitude for the assistance Defence Intelligence Standing Motšomotšo, Commander of the that SADC continues to provide the Committee. Lesotho Defence Force (LDF) which Kingdom of Lesotho in times of need. jeopardized the implementation of At the end of the Mission, the SADC SADC decisions and further destabilized He described the SADC intervention as Technical Assessment Team prepared a the security situation in the Kingdom. timely following the successful conduct detailed report with recommendations of the Ministerial Fact Finding Mission on the requirements and modalities for The SADC Technical Assessment Team of the Organ Troika on 8 September 2017 the deployment of a multidimensional held the consultative meetings at the which culminated into the holding of the SADC Contingent Force comprising the Mojalefa Lephole Convention Centre in Double Troika Summit on 15 September Military, Police and Civilian Maseru from 25 to 27 September 2017. 2017 and the deployment of the SADC Components. The SADC Technical The TAM met with various stakeholders Technical Assessment Team to Lesotho Assessment Team also prepared the which included Government officials on 24 September 2017. He therefore draft Concept of Operation (CONOPS), and non-state actors. The stakeholders pledged the commitment of the Rules of Engagement (ROE) and Status included Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Government of Lesotho to the of Forces Agreement (SOFA) for International Cooperation, the Ministry implementation of the decisions of the consideration of the Defence Sub of Defence and National Security, the SADC Summit. He however expressed Committee which is scheduled to hold Lesotho Defence Force (LDF), the remorse that Lesotho continued to be on its meeting in Luanda, Republic of Lesotho National Security Service (NSS), top of the SADC Agenda, under Angola on 3rd – 5th October 2017. Lesotho Mounted Police Service, the countries in the region that are in
16 SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 Inside SADC news SADC attends meeting for Aquaculture and Inland fisheries for African and Caribbean and Pacific (ACP)
maintaining the environment. This action plan (2012-2020), is well aligned with the SADC Fisheries Programme which is implementing the SADC Protocol on Fisheries.
This is the reason why SADC benefited from the ACP FISH II Programme where the first phase of the SADC Action Plan to Combat Illegal Unreported and Unregulated (IUU) Fishing was implemented until 2013. This enabled SADC Secretariat to consolidate the outcomes of the first phase and propose The official opening ceremony of the 5th Meeting of ACP Ministers in charge of Fisheries and Aquaculture, 18-21 September 2017,elia M Hotel and Conference Centre, Nassau, The Bahamas the new phase which involves establishment of the By Dr. Motseki Hlatshwayo of the Bahamas Dr. The Hon. of Senior government SADC Fisheries Monitoring Technical Advisor - Fisheries Hubert A. Minnis at the officials from the ACP Control and Surveillance Melia Hotel Conference Group. The SADC region Coordination Centre, which SADC Secretariat Centre in Nassau, The was represented by 14 was recently approved by the participated and supported Bahamas. More than 150 Member States (Angola, SADC Council at its meeting SADC Member States at the delegates from at least 60 Botswana, Democratic in August 2017 in Pretoria, 5th Meeting of the African, fish-exporting countries and Republic of Congo, South Africa. Caribbean and Pacific (ACP) regions gathered to strategise Madagascar, Malawi, Ministers in charge of on how to enhance the role of Mauritius, Mozambique, A report on the state of play Fisheries and Aquaculture fisheries and aquaculture in Namibia, Seychelles, South of implementation of the held from 18-21 September their national socio-economic Africa, Swaziland, United ACP Strategic Plan of Action 2017 in Nassau, the Bahamas. development. Republic of Tanzania, and its roadmap showed a Zambia and Zimbabwe). The general trend of continued The purpose of the 5th The ACP Secretary General meeting assessed improvement for fisheries meeting of ACP Ministers in H.E. Dr. Patrick Gomes, implementation of the ACP governance in ACP charge of Fisheries and indicated that the ACP Strategic Plan of Action for countries. However, access to Aquaculture was to catalyse Group remains determined Fisheries and Aquaculture, data and knowledge, the the implementation of to play a catalytic role to and discussed joint capacity to analyse this data, concrete actions and enhance enhance the sustainable flow approaches to boost these the management of fishing the collaborative efforts for of benefits from the fisheries sectors in a sustainable rights, as well as tools to the attainment of the relevant and aquaculture sectors for manner. The ACP Strategic control fishing activities all targets of the sustainable development of its member Plan of Action for Fisheries need improvement. development goals (SDGs), countries. He also indicated and Aquaculture, which was especially SDG 14 (conserve the importance of enhancing adopted by ACP Ministers in In terms of trade, the report and sustainably use the capacity building activities, June 2012 in Nadi, Fiji, has cited developments in the oceans, seas and marine deepening of policy analysis five strategic priority areas World Trade Organisation resources for sustainable and continuously exploring for action, viz; effective (WTO) as well as the ACP-EU development). ways to secure funding from management for sustainable Economic Partnership partner organization for this fisheries; promoting optimal Agreements which have The Meeting of Ministers in purpose. returns from fisheries trade; helped in integrating ACP charge of Fisheries and supporting food security in states into the world Aquaculture was officially The meeting of the Ministers ACP countries; developing opened by the Prime Minister was preceded by the meeting aquaculture; and to page 18
SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 17 Inside SADC news Aquaculture and Inland fisheries for African and Caribbean and Pacific (ACP)
in the context of aquatic and from page 17 ocean-based economy (blue • Strengthening fisheries and economy, and work is economy/blue growth). This aquaculture education, ongoing to boost the lead to development of training, and research and value-added of fish products. various recommendations development in the SADC But challenges remain, which were approved by the region. especially in getting local ACP Ministers in charge of products to meet Fisheries and Aquaculture. In a final declaration adopted international standards for by the meeting, Ministers trade (including Sanitary and In the effort to stimulate also detailed accelerated Phytosanitary (SPS) development of the ‘blue measures to be taken in order measures), as well as economy’ – which engages a to combat Illegal Unreported combating Illegal large range of marine-related and Unregulated (IUU) Unregulated and Unreported activities, in environmentally Fishing, promote effective (IUU) fishing. sustainable ways – Ministers fisheries management, agreed to allocate €40 million support small scale fisheries, The report also noted that from the Intra-ACP envelope address the issue of fisheries aquaculture is one of the of the European subsidies at the WTO, and actions where South-South Development Fund (EDF) to strengthen aquaculture cooperation is remarkable, the ACP Blue Growth production. and should be strengthened. Initiative. Launched during Most ACP countries that the meeting, the Blue Growth Ministers pledged their were surveyed in the report Initiative is aligned to the commitment to the ACP have a national plan for United Nations 2030 Agenda Strategic Plan of Action for aquaculture development, for Sustainable Development, Fisheries and Aquaculture, although some require and seeks to boost which helps countries to technical support to move productivity and coordinate and cooperate on forward. Meanwhile, fish competitiveness of fisheries joint actions. They and aquaculture production and aquaculture value highlighted the need for is increasingly taken into chains. stronger partnerships, more account in ACP countries’ Economic Development and funding opportunities, as food security strategies. Trade Mr. Viwanou SADC Secretariat well as South-South and Gnassounou urged strong coordinated development of Triangular Cooperation to On maintaining the cooperation and consensus a common position for SADC catalyse progress. environment, several key amongst ACP countries in Member States on areas of issues were identified for tackling the challenges priority for the Southern Ministers also emphasised improvement. This includes raised. He also indicated the African region which should the urgent need to intensify the slow implementation of role that regional be considered under the new efforts to mobilise financial the ‘ecosystems approach’ to organizations as well as ACP Blue Growth Initiative, resources, accelerate fisheries management, which development partners can and these include focus on: technology transfer and build is still in its initial stages for play in helping countries to human and institutional most ACP countries, as well successfully implement their • Strengthening Regional capacity in ACP countries to as persistent problems in national fisheries and Fisheries Monitoring Control achieve these measures. The managing land-sea aquaculture programmes. and Surveillance (MCS) declaration called on interactions, interfering with systems in the SADC region, development partners and coastal management. A more SADC Secretariat, especially for inland water the ACP Secretariat to give holistic approach is also represented by Dr. Motseki bodies; priority attention to this needed to incorporate the Hlatshwayo, gave a plenary issue. effects of climate change on presentation on • Strengthening fisheries fisheries into national plans “Perspectives on management in Finally, it was agreed that the on climate change. Aquaculture Development in shared/transboundary water 6th ACP Meeting of Ministers the SADC region”, to steer bodies of the SADC region, in charge of Fisheries of ACP Assistant Secretary discussions on unlocking the especially for inland fisheries Aquaculture be held in Apia, General for Sustainable full potential of aquaculture and aquaculture; and Samoa in 2019.
18 SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 DID YOU Apart from the nine (9) founding Member States which are Angola, KNOW THAT Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe that created SADCC in 1980; which was later transformed to SADC in 1992, the subsequent Member States joined SADC as follows;
Namibia 1990 South Africa 1994 Mauritius 1995 Seychelles 1998 Democratic Republic of Congo 1998 Madagascar 2005, and Comoros August 2017
SADC SECRETARIAT The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat is the principal executive institution of SADC, responsible for strategic planning, co-ordination and management of SADC programmes. It is also responsible for the implementation of decisions of SADC policy and institutions such as the Summit, the Troikas and Council of Ministers. It is headed by an Executive Secretary and has its headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana.
VISION A reputable efficient and responsive enabler of regional integration and sustainable development.
MISSION To provide strategic expertise and coordinate the harmonization of policies and strategies to accelerate regional intergration and sustainable investment.
VALUES • Quality • Professionalism • Integrity • Commitment and passion • Team spirit • Mutual respect and trust • Courtesy • Equality of opportunity • Transparency and frankness
One region, 16 nations, working towards a common future
Tel: +267 395 1863 Fax: +267 397 2848/3181070 Email: [email protected] www.sadc.int www.facebook.com/sadc.int @SADC_News Inside SADC Member States holidays
UNION OF COMOROS
MEMBER STATE DATE HOLIDAY
Botswana 30 September Botswana Day
Botswana 01 October Public Holiday
Lesotho 04 October Independence day
Malawi 15 October Mother’s Day
Mauritius 30 October Divali
Mozambique 04 October Peace and Reconciliation Day
UR Tanzania 14 October The Mwalimu Nyerere Day
Zambia 18 October Prayer and fasting Day
October Independence Day
Happy 51st Independence: Republic of Botswana :30 SEPTEMBER The SADC Secretariat, on behalf of the SADC family extends its sincere congratulations to the President of the Republic of Botswana, His Excellency Lieutenant General Dr. Seretse Khama Ian Khama and the Citizens of Botswana on the occasion of the 51st anniversary of Independence of the Republic of Botswana.
May the peace and harmony continue to prevail and may the country continue to grow and prosper. PULA!
20 SADC Secretariat Monthly Newsletter Issue 9, September 2017 Inside SADC Member States information Angola is a country in Southern Africa. It is the 19th century, European settlers slowly and seventh-largest country in Africa, and is hesitantly began to establish themselves in bordered by Namibia to the south, the the interior. As a Portuguese colony, Angola Democratic Republic of the Congo to the north did not encompass its present borders until the and east, Zambia to the east, and the Atlantic early 20th century, following resistance by Ocean to west. groups such as the Cuamato, the Kwanyama and the Mbunda. The exclave province of Cabinda has borders Republic of with the Republic of the Congo and the Angola Independence was achieved in 1975 after the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The protracted liberation war. That same year, capital and largest city of Angola is Luanda. Although its Angola descended into an intense civil war that lasted until territory has been inhabited since the Paleolithic Era, modern 2002. It has since become a relatively stable unitary Angola originates in Portuguese colonization, which began presidential republic. with, and was for centuries limited to, coastal settlements and trading posts established beginning in the 16th century. In the (source: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Angola)
Botswana Day is the national day of the elections were held in 1965, following the Republic of Botswana celebrated on adoption of the constitution. On September September 30. It commemorates the 30, 1966, Botswana officially became an independence of Botswana from the United independent republic within the Kingdom in 1966. In the 19th century, Commonwealth with Seretse Khama as its hostilities broke out between several tribes that first President. Botswana Independence Day laid claims to the territory of present-day is the country's main national holiday. It is Botswana. Republic of widely celebrated throughout the country Botswana with official speeches, ceremonies, parades, The tensions escalated when the Boer settlers street parties, concerts, and other festive arrived from the Transvaal. Eventually, a group events and activities. The main celebration is of Batswana leaders asked the British government for held in the capital city of Gaborone. This year is a special protection. In 1885, the Bechuanaland Protectorate was celebration as the country will be celebrating its 50 years of officially established. In 1961, Seretse Khama founded the independence. Bechuanaland Democratic Party that struggled for the protectorate's independence. Three years later, Bechuanaland (source:http://www.historytoday.com/stephen-chan/50-year was granted democratic-self-government. The first general s-botswana)
SOBHUZA I, popularly known as Somhlolo a round piece of rnetal or money. The book (Father of Mysteries), left the Swazi Nation a was taken to represent the Bible, and great legacy in the form of a prophecy that Sobhuza advised his people to accept this but influenced greatly the basis of Swazi life and to try and avoid money. He warned them that philosophy. they must never harm these white people, for if they spilt a drop of the white man's blood One night, shortly before his death, Sobhuza their country would be destroyed and they had a vision. In the morning he called his Kingdom of would disappear as a Nation. He I died councilors and told them he had dreamed that in1836. white skinned people with hair like the tails of Swaziland cattle would arrive in his country, bringing with (Source: them two things: UMCULU and INDILINGA. When http://bahai.uga.edu/News/020898.html) translated, these words respectively mean a scroll or book and
Happy 51st Independence: Kingdom of Lesotho :04 OCTOBER The SADC Secretariat, on behalf of the SADC family extends its sincere congratulations to His Majesty, King Letsie III, Dr. Thomas Thabane, Prime Minister of the Kingdom of Lesotho and the Citizens of Lesotho on the occasion of the 51st Anniversary of the Independence of the Kingdom of Lesotho.
May the peace, security and prosperity prevail in the Mountain Kingdom.
KHOTSO, PULA, NALA!
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