The Ambassador of Canada responsible for relations with Angola, Botswana, Zimbabwe and Southern African Development Community (SADC), His Excellency Mr.René Cremonese presented credentials to the SADC Executive Secretary, Her Excellency Dr Stergomena Lawrence Tax on 13th February 2020, at the SADC Secretariat Headquarters in Gaborone, Botswana.
Ambassador Cremonese highlighted that Canada remains committed to enhancing cooperation with SADC at the regional and national levels. He stated that Canada is highly committed and has prioritised gender equality, and women empowerment. The Ambassador also pointed out that Canada is supporting SADC Member States in responding to food shortage, in view of the current drought affecting some of the Member States.
H.E. Dr. Tax congratulated Ambassador Cremonese for the accreditation, and welcomed him to SADC. She also indicated that climate change has affected the region in various ways, including in food shortages, even in countries, which are traditionally known to produce food surpluses. She stated that an assessment study, which will determine the extent of food shortfalls is being finalised, so as to come up with mitigation measures. In this regard, H.E. Dr Tax appreciated the commitment by Canada to assist SADC Member States.
On women empowerment and gender mainstreaming, she said gender is an area that SADC can learn from Canada, recognising progress made in Canada.
The two Parties reiterated their commitment in expanding the scope of cooperation, by exploring other potential areas of cooperation for mutual benefit.
His Excellency Mr. René Marcel Cremonese was accompanied by Political and Public Affairs Officer, Ms Wongai Zhangazha.
