Hichilema Participates in SADC Troika Summit from Afar, Leveraging Virtual Technology

Staff Reporter

In a bold move, Zambian President Hakainde Hichilema opted for a virtual attendance at the SADC Summit, citing “diplomatic issues” between Zambia and Zimbabwe. By choosing digital diplomacy, Hichilema avoided a potentially awkward face-to-face encounter with his Zimbabwean counterpart, Emmerson Mnangagwa.

Sources close to the Zambian presidency revealed that Hichilema’s decision was motivated by a desire to maintain regional unity and cooperation, despite bilateral tensions. “The President prioritized the region’s interests over bilateral issues,” said the official.

Moreover, Hichilema’s virtual participation also raised questions about the necessity of hosting expensive in-person summits. With digital technology enabling seamless connectivity, some wondered if the significant financial resources spent on hosting the summit could have been better allocated.

Many Zimbabweans and regional analysts were waiting following an update by the Zimbabwean Authority that issues a list with President Hichilema’s arrival date and time at Robert Mugabe Airport in Harare.

His absence also sent a signal to unresolved issues between the two countries, pointing at silent diplomatic wrangle. Zambia Minister of foreign and International Affairs Mulambo Haimbe was among the delegates who attended the SADC troika Summit at the new Parliament building in Mt Hampden.

The Summit ran under the theme “Promoting Innovation to Unlock Opportunities for Sustainable Economic Growth and Development towards and Industrialized SADC”.

Upon assuming the chairman post, President Mnangagwa said, Zimbabwe is a friend to all and enemy of none. “We firmly believe in dialogue and diplomacy as the sustainable route for the resolution of conflict and disputes.”

“We thus, stand ready to play our part in consolidating the four pillars of the SADC region, silencing the guns on our African Continent,” said Mnangagwa.

“This is a wake-up call for African leaders,” said a SADC official. “We need to invest in digital infrastructure and make data more affordable, if we want to reap the benefits of digital diplomacy and economic integration.”

In response, SADC leaders announced plans to launch a regional digital infrastructure initiative, aimed at improving connectivity and reducing data costs across the continent.

By leveraging digital technology, Hichilema demonstrated a commitment to regional cooperation, fiscal responsibility, and innovative problem-solving. However, his virtual participation also exposed deeper challenges that need to be addressed to ensure that digital diplomacy is inclusive and effective in Africa.