• The programme has contributed to the development and harmonization of transport and transit policies.
• Through EU support, Tripartite Guidelines for Trade and Transport Facilitation were developed and adopted.
• EU informs SADC that when undertaking inspection on their processes and procedures, they look at relations.

Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) says the Tripartite Transport and Transit Facilitation Programme (TTTFP), and Support to Peace and Security in the SADC Region (SPSS) programmes have contributed to SADC integration agenda.

Speaking during a virtual meeting with, Senior Inspector at the European Union External Action Service Stefano Gatto, SADC Executive Secretary, Dr. Stergomena Tax indicated that the programme has contributed to the development and harmonization of transport and transit policies aimed at promoting trade facilitation in the SADC, East African Community (EAC), and Common Market for Eastern and Southern Africa (COMESA) Tripartite area.

Dr. Tax noted that through European Union (EU) support, Tripartite Guidelines for Trade and Transport Facilitation were developed and adopted to ensure continuous movement of essential goods and services during COVID-19 pandemic.

She further indicated that while the region continues to cooperate with the EU and highly appreciates the cooperation and support rendered to the region, “it will be prudent to re-orient and enhance the existing cooperation by focusing more on impactful partnership and timely delivery of programmes.”

“The Southern African Development Community (SADC) enjoys long standing cordial relations and strong cooperation with the European Union Delegation,” Dr. Tax said.

Mr Stefano Gatto further thanked Dr. Tax for the warm welcome and informed her that when undertaking inspection on their processes and procedures, they look at relations between the EU Delegation and its partners, the host country and the region at large.