The Minister of Homeland Security, Peter Mukhito, has called on SADC Member States to embrace coordination, integration, shared responsibility and deeper cooperation in safeguarding the region against evolving public security threats.
The Minister made the remarks when he officially opened the SADC Public Security Sub-Committee Meeting on Wednesday, 1 July 2026, at the Bingu wa Mutharika International Convention Centre (BICC) in Lilongwe. The meeting has brought together delegates from across the region to discuss collective strategies for strengthening migration management, refugee protection and environmental sustainability.
In his keynote address, the Minister observed that security threats are evolving rapidly across the world and that no nation, regardless of its size, wealth, or military capability, can effectively address them in isolation.
“When one country becomes vulnerable, the entire region becomes vulnerable,” he said.
He emphasized that public security remains the cornerstone of sustainable development, adding:
“Public security is the foundation upon which development is built. Without security, investment hesitates, tourism declines, and development itself becomes impossible.”
He therefore urged SADC Member States to remain united, vigilant and prepared in confronting lawlessness and emerging security challenges across the region.
The Minister also encouraged delegates to ensure that every policy they formulate and every decision they make is centred on humanity. He reminded participants that the true measure of the meeting’s success would not be the discussions themselves, but the tangible outcomes that improve the lives of the people of Southern Africa.
The opening ceremony also featured presentations by the Chairperson of the SADC Public Security Sub-Committee and Secretary for Homeland Security, Mrs. Linda Moyo, and the Director of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Affairs, Prof. Kula Theletsane, who underscored the importance of coordinated responses to emerging public security challenges. Also in attendance was the Director General of the Department of Immigration and Citizenship Services, Mr. Dennis Chipao, alongside Heads of Delegation and senior government officials from SADC Member States.
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