Speaking at the event, President Duma Boko reiterated Botswana's unwavering commitment to SADC's regional integration agenda during the ceremony. The ceremony was attended by notable dignitaries including President of Zimbabwe and Chairperson of SADC Emmerson Mnangagwa; Minister of Foreign Affairs and International Trade of Zimbabwe and Chairperson of the SADC Council of Ministers Professor Amon Murwira. Others were Executive Secretary of SADC, Elias Magosi and representatives from SADC member states, including ambassadors, high commissioners, and government officials from Zimbabwe and Botswana. The project of constructing the SADC Headquarters in Botswana began over two decades ago. The idea was first proposed at the SADC Council of Ministers meeting in Luanda, Angola, in March 2003, when Botswana offered a plot in Gaborone's Central Business District (CBD). A Public-Private Partnership (PPP) Agreement was established in August 2009, involving SADC, Bongwe Investments (Proprietary) Limited, and the Government of Botswana as a guarantor. This agreement facilitated the construction of the headquarters, concluding on December 11, 2024.
Boko highlighted the collaborative efforts and technical expertise provided by Botswana's ministries of Transport and Public Works, and Finance, to ensure the successful completion and handover of the building. The process, which began in March 2023, was finalised with the official transfer of the SADC House building and assets from Bongwe Investments to SADC. In his address, Boko emphasised that the SADC Headquarters is more than just a physical structure but represented the region's collective journey, achievements, and future aspirations. “It is a place where we will continue to build on our successes as a region, address emerging challenges, and strive for greater achievements. “As I draw to the conclusion of my address, I wish to take this opportunity to reiterate Botswana’s commitment to SADC’s regional integration agenda and that of the African continent at large,” he said. Boko expressed his gratitude to the SADC Heads of State and Government for entrusting Botswana with hosting the SADC Headquarters and the SADC Standby Force Regional Logistics Depot. He saw this as a testament to the trust and confidence placed in Botswana as a member state. He also paid tribute to the forerunners and founding fathers of SADC, recognising their visionary leadership and the legacy they have left behind.
