Theko Tlebere
“If bestowed with this immense honour, I pledge to work diligently with members to uphold and advance the Commonwealth’s values, effectively represent the organisation on the global stage, and provide visionary leadership to the Commonwealth Secretariat.” Joshua Setipa
The 44th Ordinary Summit of the Heads of State and Government of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) took place on August 17, 2024, in Harare, Zimbabwe. It was a significant moment for both the region and the broader international community. One of the summit’s key outcomes was the collective endorsement of Joshua Phoho Setipa from Lesotho as SADC’s candidate for the position of Commonwealth Secretary-General. This endorsement represents more than just confidence in an individual; it is proof of Setipa’s distinguished career, his vision for the future, and the unity of the SADC region in championing leadership that fosters cooperation, development, and progress on the global stage.
Joshua Phoho Setipa’s path to becoming a candidate for one of the most prestigious roles in international diplomacy is marked by decades of experience in both national and international arenas. Setipa has held numerous high-profile roles, including Chief Executive Officer of the Lesotho National Development Corporation (LNDC) and Minister of Trade and Industry in Lesotho. He brings a wealth of knowledge in trade, development, and governance to the table. Setipa’s strategic approach to development prioritises sustainability, inclusivity, and long-term growth.
As Minister of Trade and Industry, he demonstrated his ability to navigate complex international trade negotiations, advocate for fair trade practices, and contribute to the economic advancement of not only Lesotho but also the entire SADC region. His experience with the World Trade Organisation (WTO) provided valuable insights into global trade dynamics, international diplomacy, and multilateral cooperation. Setipa’s understanding of the challenges and opportunities faced by the Commonwealth’s member states, particularly those from the Global South, makes him a highly qualified candidate. Setipa intends to undertake a thorough assessment of the Secretariat’s administrative procedures to enhance communication with stakeholders, optimise program development and delivery, and improve overall efficiency. Setipa is fully dedicated to implementing effective assessment tools, enhancing financial management, and developing a comprehensive strategy for resource mobilisation.
SADC’s endorsement of Setipa as the candidate for Commonwealth Secretary-General is a strategic move that reflects the region’s unity and vision for the future. This endorsement sends a strong message of regional solidarity, emphasising the importance of African leadership in global governance. It underscores SADC’s commitment to ensuring that the voices of smaller, developing nations are heard on the international stage. The endorsement also aligns with the broader African Union (AU) agenda of promoting African leadership in international organisations. Setipa’s potential appointment as Commonwealth Secretary-General would further enhance Africa’s role in shaping global governance.
Joshua Phoho Setipa’s vision for the Commonwealth aligns with its core values of democracy, development, and diversity. His candidacy is centered on revitalising the Commonwealth, making it more responsive to the needs of its member states, and ensuring its relevance and dynamism in the 21st century. He aims to strengthen the Commonwealth’s role in promoting sustainable development, economic resilience, and inclusive growth. Setipa envisions an inclusive Commonwealth that values the voices of all member states, regardless of size or economic power. He is committed to advancing the Commonwealth’s work in democracy, human rights, and the rule of law. Setipa’s potential leadership would reinforce these principles and uphold the Commonwealth’s reputation as a defender of human rights.
The endorsement of Joshua Phoho Setipa by SADC is epoch-making for Lesotho, the region, and the Commonwealth as a whole. It represents confidence in Setipa’s ability to lead the organisation into a new era of cooperation, development, and inclusivity. With his extensive experience, visionary leadership, and commitment to the Commonwealth’s values, Setipa is an ideal candidate to address the challenges of the 21st century. His candidacy offers an opportunity to renew the Commonwealth’s relevance and impact with fresh perspectives, innovative solutions, and a steadfast commitment to unity. SADC’s endorsement reflects their confidence in Setipa’s leadership and their commitment to a more united, prosperous, and equitable global community.
In closing today’s chapter, it is essential to reiterate that, Joshua Phoho Setipa’s endorsement by Heads of state and Governments’ as the candidate for Commonwealth Secretary-General is a testament to his exceptional leadership qualities and the unity of the SADC region in championing effective and inclusive global governance. Setipa’s potential to bring about meaningful change within the Commonwealth, combined with his dedication to democracy, development, and diversity, makes him the ideal leader to guide the organisation into a new chapter of progress and cooperation. The Future is NOW!
