The SADC in data

Given the fact the SADC is composed of several countries, it's only natural to think there must be quite some differences between them. In fact, despite their will to stand together and help each other to progress, this region is full of contrasts that might put at risk the effectiveness of the organism's projects, as not all of the parts involved are able to contribute as much as their neighbours.

First of all, we must talk about the economic aspect.

As we can see in this map, most of the countries base its economy in export agriculture (Zimbawe, Mozambique), production of coffee (Tanzania and Democratic Republic of Congo, for instance) and even mining (such as Zambia). However, while none of these countries have been able to surpass the average income per capita of 3000$, South Africa, with seven differents sources of revenues, that include tourism and gold mining, has an average income per capita of over 5500$.

Following this line of observation, we can now focus on their debt level. As expected, those countries with a lower average income per capita are the ones with a higher level of debt, being Mozambique and Zambia two countries with more than 200% of external debt in its GNI (Gross National Income).

In the case of South Africa, Botswana and Namibia, external debt represents less than 25%.

In order to alleviate, at least in part, this gap between countries, the European Union has launched several economic aids schemes and signed preferential trading arrangements with all of the SADC States but South Africa. 

Secondly, there are political contrasts, as well.

 As can be seen in this map, political instability is present in all of the austral countries, but with differing degrees of severity. Mozambique and Angola have suffered multiple civil wars that have caused the death of more than 5% of the population, whilst in Tanzania or Namibia the political violence has been so rare that it's not even worthy of mention.

As for democracy, it's strongly associated with political stability. Most of the countries live in democracy (South Africa or Zimbawe) or are in process of making it happen (Tanzania or Democratic Republic of Congo). Angola and Mozambique are still in a civil war, its leaders coming from a national conference.

















In terms of power, there is a clear polarity. Tanzania might be the center of an commercial network, but South Africa is still an economic and cultural pole, attracting most of the SADC countries.

Despite all these differences, there's a common aspect between these countries: religion.

As a matter of fact, Muslim community represents less than 5% of the population in nearly all of the austral region, unlike the rest of Africa.