SADC as a Peace and Security Actor since its Inception in the Region

The study critically assessed the Southern African Development Community (SADC), currently constituting 15 member countries, as an actor of peace and security in the region since its inception in 1992. Relevant literature was critically analysed and existing models of conflict transformation for buttressing all forms of instability were appraised. The study adopted secondary data collection method as an approach. The findings showed that SADC, faced with more internal challenges than external challenges, led to the regional integration. Leading factors in the lack of peace and security were, armed conflict, widening-socioeconomic disparities, competing over scarce resources, legacy of violence, power struggle, exploitation of ethnic groups by the elite and poor governance among others. Consequently, instability caused missing of lives, refugees and displaced persons, anti-personal landmines, economic losses, high social costs, conflict induced changes in womens gender roles and post-conflict (humanitarian, political, economic and social) reconstruction. SADC envisioned peace and security through adopted Strategic Indicative Plan for the Organ (SIPO). Though achievements were experienced they were tainted with unattended weaknesses and challenges