Dar es Salaam. The Southern African Development Community (SADC) has extended its condolences to Tanzanians following recent protests, while congratulating President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her re-election, during an extraordinary summit of regional leaders held virtually on November 7, 2025.
The high-level meeting, chaired by South Africa’s President Cyril Ramaphosa, brought together heads of state and government from across the 15-member bloc to address pressing political and economic developments in the region.
In the communique released after the summit, SADC leaders expressed “deep regret” over the loss of life and destruction of property during the recent unrest in Tanzania and Madagascar, calling for calm and dialogue in resolving internal challenges.
“Summit extended its sincere condolences to the families who lost loved ones during the protests… and expressed deep regret that these events resulted in the loss of life and destruction of critical infrastructure,” the statement read.
The bloc congratulated President Samia Suluhu Hassan on her successful re-election and recognized the participation of Vice President Dr. Emmanuel John Nchimbi, who represented Tanzania during the virtual session.
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According to a statement released by the Office of the Vice President of Tanzania, Dr. Nchimbi informed SADC Heads of State that the Government of Tanzania, under President Samia Suluhu Hassan, is committed to ensuring that the ongoing national reconciliation dialogue succeeds, with the aim of maintaining peace and unity, and upholding Tanzania’s reputation as a beacon of stability in Africa and the world at large.
The Vice President further affirmed that Tanzania remains safe and stable, and stands ready to continue welcoming visitors from across the globe for the mutual benefit of all nations.
In addition, he thanked SADC leaders who attended the inauguration of President Samia Suluhu Hassan on November 3, 2025, as well as those who sent heartfelt congratulations, noting that all efforts will be made to sustain peace and accelerate Tanzania’s development.
In the October 29, 2025 election, which was marred by nationwide protests and unrest, President Samia Suluhu Hassan was declared the winner with about 97.66 percent of the votes. The SADC Election Observation Mission issued a preliminary report on November 3, 2025, concluding that the electoral process fell short of the requirements outlined in the SADC Principles and Guidelines Governing Democratic Elections.
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The extraordinary summit further addressed leadership transitions within SADC, following Madagascar’s decision to step down as Chair due to internal instability. In line with SADC’s rotational principles, South Africa was appointed Interim Chair until August 2026.
The leaders agreed to continue pursuing the 2025–2026 theme, “Advancing Industrialisation, Agricultural Transformation, and Energy Transition for a Resilient SADC.” The communique emphasized the region’s commitment to economic integration and sustainability amid global challenges.
The summit closed with appreciation for Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, who offered to host selected SADC meetings during the interim period, and renewed unity among member states to strengthen cooperation and peace in southern Africa.
