State Banquet Toast Remarks by His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa at the 46th Summit of SADC Heads of State and Government, Ethekwini, South Africa

Programme Director, 
Your Majesties,
Your Excellencies, Heads of State and Government,
Honourable Ministers, Ambassadors and High Commissioners,
The Executive Secretary of SADC, Mr Elias Magosi,
Heads of Delegation,
Distinguished Guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,

Sanibonani.

Good evening.

I warmly welcome you all to eThekwini in the beautiful province of KwaZulu-Natal.

We are deeply privileged to host you here. 

We gather here not just as a Community, but as a family.

We gather as people born of the same soil, forged in common struggle and united by an abiding desire for freedom, justice and equality.

Your presence here affirms the enduring bonds of friendship and solidarity that unite the people of our region.

KwaZulu-Natal is the birthplace of many giants whose courage and vision contributed not only to South Africa’s liberation, but also to Africa’s broader struggle for independence, dignity and self-determination.

Leaders like Inkosi Albert Luthuli, John Langalibalele Dube and Pixley ka Isaka Seme helped shape a tradition of principled leadership whose influence extended far beyond our borders.

KwaZulu-Natal is therefore an inspiring setting for a summit of leaders dedicated to advancing our shared vision for Southern Africa.

Over the past several days, our Community has demonstrated its commitment to regional progress through meetings of Senior Officials, the Council of Ministers and SADC Industrialisation Week. 

Allow me to express my sincere appreciation to our Ministers, Senior Officials, the SADC Secretariat and all those whose diligence and professionalism have prepared the ground for the important deliberations that will take place tomorrow.

We are especially pleased that many of our delegations have already had the opportunity to experience the vibrant spirit of KwaZulu-Natal. 

It is through these shared experiences that we deepen not only diplomatic relations, but also the bonds between our people.

Tomorrow, as leaders of our region gather in Summit, we will have the opportunity to renew our political commitment to further unite and integrate our region.

It is an opportunity to strengthen our collective resolve to improve the lives of our citizens by building strong economies and vibrant societies – to give meaning to the aspirations of the young people of Southern Africa.

This evening, the formal programme gives way to fellowship. 

This evening, we celebrate our shared heritage, strengthen old friendships, forge new partnerships and enjoy the hospitality of our country. 

May you enjoy the rich culture, vibrant music and exceptional cuisine of KwaZulu-Natal, and may your stay in South Africa be both memorable and rewarding.

Please rise and join me in a toast.

To the continued unity of SADC, to the peace and prosperity of our region and to the health, happiness and success of the leaders and peoples of Southern Africa.

I thank you.