Professor Anthoni van Nieuwkerk (UNISA) provides insights on the SADC Strategic Reflective Workshop

Prof. Anthoni Van Nieuwkerk is the Professor of International Relations and Diplomacy at the Thabo Mbeki African School of Public and International Affairs. DIRCO, in partnership with UNISA’s Thabo Mbeki School of Public and International Affairs, will convene a Strategic Reflection Workshop on 25–26 February 2026 at DIRCO’s Conference Centre. This high‑level engagement forms part of South Africa’s preparations for assuming the 46th SADC Chairship, creating a platform for government stakeholders, scholars and policy experts to collectively assess South Africa’s evolving role within the SADC region. The workshop’s outcomes will directly contribute to shaping a renewed national SADC Engagement Strategy, strengthening South Africa’s policy coherence, leadership posture and regional priorities. These insights will guide South Africa’s agenda during its upcoming Chairship (August 2026-August 2027), ensuring its leadership advances deeper regional integration, peace, security, and inclusive development in alignment with SADC Vision 2050 and the AU’s Agenda 2063.