SADC Hosts EASF Benchmarking Visit to Strengthen Regional Peace and Security Cooperation

Botswana – 23 October 2025 –The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is hosting a three-day benchmarking visit by the Eastern Africa Standby Force (EASF) from 23 to 25 October 2025 at the SADC Secretariat Headquarters. The visit aims to deepen cooperation and share best practices between the two regional peace and security bodies.

Brigadier (Rtd) Paul Kahuria Njema, Director of the EASF Secretariat and head of the delegation, expressed gratitude to SADC for its hospitality and welcomed the opportunity to learn from SADC’s experience. He emphasized that the visit is a platform for shared reflection and strengthening the African Union’s vision of a peaceful, integrated continent.

“SADC has demonstrated exemplary leadership in conflict prevention, mediation, and peace support operations, including the successful SADC Mission in Mozambique (SAMIM),” Brig. Njema said. “This visit allows EASF to learn from SADC’s tested systems, particularly in strategic planning, mission support, and regional coordination”.

The programme includes presentations and discussions on key areas such as command structures, early warning mechanisms, and logistics. Delegates will also explore mutual collaboration opportunities including joint training, exchange programs, and harmonization of operational procedures.

The visit includes engagements with SADC’s Planning Element (PLANELM), Regional Early Warning Centre (REWC), and peace support operation coordinators. Courtesy calls to Botswana’s Ministry of International Relations and Ministry of State Presidency are also scheduled.

EASF Director concluded, “Through mutual learning and solidarity, we can ensure that the African Standby Force remains a dynamic and effective force responding to Africa’s peace and security challenges”.

The visit reinforces the commitment of both EASF and SADC to enhance peace, security, and regional integration in Africa.