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“Australia recognises the primary role that SADC plays in promoting peace, security and democracy in the southern African region. Through this MOU, we have committed ourselves to sharing information and ideas so that both our respective regions can contribute to the resolution of global and regional challenges.”

“I was, for example, very glad to receive the Executive Secretary General’s briefing on SADC’s efforts in Zimbabwe and Madagascar. Australia supports the work of SADC in both these countries and the information will help to shape our own policy approaches to regional issues,” Ms Harrap said.

The Australian Government provides assistance to the SADC Transboundary Water Management Program. The $17.5 million program aims to provide millions of people with safer drinking water, improve water supplies and help reduce conflict. Australia’s support for this important initiative is provided in partnership with the German and British governments.

In October 2012, a delegation from the Limpopo Water Course Commission, together with two officials from the SADC Water Division, will visit Australia. The delegation will attend the International River Symposium and meet with relevant counterparts to share ideas on policy approaches to transboundary water management.

Ms Harrap said that Australia was also interested in seeing how the Australia Awards Scholarships program, which currently provides 1000 scholarships and professional development opportunities to African students every year, could be utilised by the SADC organisation.