Electricity and Energy Minister Dr Kgosientsho Ramokgopa is set to attend the upcoming Joint Meeting of Ministers responsible for energy and water sectors, hosted by the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat in Harare, Zimbabwe, from July 3 to 4.

The Department of Electricity and Energy (DEE) says this pivotal meeting aims to discuss key regional strategies and initiatives for sustainable energy and water management.

As an essential platform for SADC member States, the joint meeting will focus on enhancing regional collaboration in the energy and water sectors.

Ramokgopa will engage with fellow Ministers from across the region to address critical issues, including the status of implementation of previous decisions, the review of the SADC Protocol on Energy and strategies for fostering energy security supply.

Of particular importance, the DEE says the meeting will also focus deliberations on the Dar es Salaam Declaration, which seeks to fast-track electricity access for at least 300-million people in sub-Saharan Africa by 2030.

The department says this initiative is well aligned with its strategic goal of achieving universal access to electricity for all South Africans by 2030.

Further, the meeting will be followed by a “landmark event” commemorating the thirtieth anniversary of the Southern African Power Pool.

“Our participation in this joint meeting underscores South Africa's commitment to regional integration and cooperation in energy and water management. It is vital that we work together to enhance energy security, promote sustainable development and drive economic growth across the SADC region,” says Ramokgopa.

Key topics on the agenda include the advancement of regional energy infrastructure, regulatory initiatives and the promotion of renewable-energy sources.

The meeting will also provide a platform for delivering strategic direction to the SADC Secretariat, ensuring the effective coordination and implementation of priority projects.

The DEE says Ramokgopa’s participation reflects South Africa's broader strategy to strengthen bilateral and multilateral partnerships within the region, particularly in light of the country's ambitions to be a regional energy hub and enhance its energy security.

“The outcomes of this meeting will be significant in guiding future policies and collaborative efforts aimed at addressing the continent’s energy challenges and opportunities,” the department says.