THE eThekwini Municipality’s successful hosting of the 46th Southern African Development Community (SADC) Summit has once again put the city on the map.

eThekwini received high praise from President Cyril Ramaphosa who attended the summit which brought together 16 heads of state and government, ministers, and delegates to the Durban ICC from August 3 to 17.

During his address Ramaphosa reminded delegates that Durban occupies a special place in Africa’s history.

“It was in Durban, 24 years ago, that the African Union was officially launched, marking the continent’s transition from the struggle against colonialism and apartheid towards deeper co-operation, integration, and development,” he said.

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The summit was held under the theme Resilient, Sustainable and Inclusive Industrialisation through Infrastructure Development, Agricultural and Critical Minerals Transformation in Pursuit of a Just World. eThekwini Mayor Cyril Xaba said the City’s selection as host demonstrated growing confidence in Durban’s capabilities as a globally competitive destination.

“Hosting SADC was about more than delivering a successful event. It stimulated local economic activity, strengthened regional partnerships, and enhanced eThekwini’s profile as a destination for tourism, trade, and investment,” said Xaba.

The summit being hosted in Durban also marked the start of South Africa’s one-year tenure as SADC chair. Ramaphosa took over from Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa.

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