The Executive Secretary of the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC), H.E. Dr. Stergomena L. Tax, paid a courtesy call on H.E. John Pombe John Magufuli, the President of the United Republic of Tanzania and the Deputy Chairperson of the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Co-operation (Organ), on the 19 May 2016 in Dar es Salaam. Being the first official visit, since he was elected as the 5th President of the United Republic of Tanzania in October 2015, Dr. Tax congratulated President Magufuli for the successful and credible elections, and for his exemplary leadership since assuming Office.
Dr. Tax briefed President Magufuli on various economic, political and security issues prevailing in the SADC Region. In particular, the Executive Secretary explained the role of the Organ ensuring that the SADC Region remains politically stable and secure, and seized with developments in the region. She re-affirmed that the political situation in the Region was stable despite of few challenges being addressed ably by the Region.
President Magufuli, thanked Dr. Tax for the brief and assured her of Tanzania's unwavering commitment to SADC and regional integration in general. Tanzania as one of the SADC founding Member States remains committed to the objectives enshrined in the SADC Treaty; in particular, the promotion of sustainable and equitable economic growth and socio-economic development that ensures poverty alleviation with the ultimate objective of its eradication."This is why my government has embraced the moto of 'Hapa Kazi tu', because without hard work and dedication our vision and that of SADC will remain statements", he said. President Magufuli emphasized that measures to sustain peace, security and political stability must go hand in hand with measures to enhance socio-economic development, He urged the Executive Secretary and SADC to put the adopted strategies into tangible actions in order to enhance the region's productive capacity and competitiveness, thus contributing to socio-economic growth for the benefits of SADC citizens.
President Magufuli will assume chairmanship of the SADC Organ in August this year.
