SOUTH AFRICA AND ZIMBABWE TO STRENGTHEN SOCIAL DEVELOPMENT COOPERATION THROUGH NEW BILATERAL AGREEMENT

• Minister of Social Development Sisisi Tolashe will sign a Memorandum of Understanding with her Zimbabwean counterpart to strengthen cooperation in social development.
• The agreement will focus on protecting vulnerable groups, including children on the move, older persons and persons with disabilities.
• A Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Committee will be established to oversee implementation and ensure sustained impact.

The Minister of Social Development, Ms Nokuzola Sisisi Tolashe, will on Wednesday, 17 December 2025, sign a Memorandum of Understanding on cooperation in the field of social development with the Minister of Public Service, Labour and Social Welfare of the Republic of Zimbabwe, Hon Edgar Moyo, in Pretoria.
The agreement marks an important step in strengthening bilateral relations between South Africa and Zimbabwe, building on long-standing historical, political, social and economic ties rooted in regional solidarity and cooperation.

Since South Africa transitioned to democracy in 1994, the two countries have continued to deepen diplomatic relations through structured bilateral mechanisms, including the South Africa–Zimbabwe Bi-National Commission, under whose framework the agreement will be concluded.

The Memorandum of Understanding seeks to enhance collaboration on key social development priorities that affect vulnerable populations across borders. It builds on existing cooperation while expanding areas of engagement to respond to emerging social challenges faced by communities in both countries.
Key areas of cooperation outlined in the agreement include child protection, with particular attention to children on the move; social protection for vulnerable groups; substance abuse prevention and rehabilitation; support for older persons and persons with disabilities; sustainable livelihoods; and capacity building for social welfare professionals.

The agreement also formalises the establishment of a Joint Monitoring and Evaluation Committee, which will oversee implementation through annual action plans, monitoring, reporting and continuous improvement of joint programmes.

In addition, the MoU strengthens existing cross-border initiatives focused on children on the move, including undocumented and unaccompanied minors. A Joint Implementation Plan, to be finalised by June 2026, will guide the practical rollout of agreed programmes.
The signing of the agreement is expected to enhance cross-border coordination, strengthen information-sharing, and support the implementation of joint interventions to improve social protection systems in both South Africa and Zimbabwe.

Through this partnership, the two countries reaffirm their shared commitment to protecting the dignity and well-being of vulnerable communities, while advancing inclusive and responsive social development across the region.