The Governments of the Republic of Malawi and the United Republic of Tanzania convened a series of high-level governance meetings of the Joint Songwe River Basin Commission (SONGWECOM) in Lilongwe, Malawi, from 7 to 10 July 2026. The meetings brought together policymakers, technical experts, and senior government officials from both Member States to review progress and advance strategic initiatives aimed at promoting sustainable development and management of the Songwe River Basin.

The meetings comprised the 11th Regular Session of the Joint Team of Experts (JTE), held on 7 July 2026; the 8th Regular Session of the Joint Steering Committee (JSC), conducted from 8 to 9 July 2026; and the 5th Regular Session of the Council of Ministers (CoM), held on 10 July 2026. The sessions were hosted by the Republic of Malawi within the framework of the Convention Establishing the Joint Songwe River Basin Commission.

During the meetings, Member States deliberated on key operational and governance matters of the Commission, reviewed progress in the implementation of transboundary programmes, and considered the proposed Work Plan and Budget for the 2026/2027 Financial Year. The sessions also focused on resource mobilisation strategies to support the advancement of the Lower Songwe Dam, Hydropower Plant and Transmission Lines Project, which was recognised as a flagship regional investment expected to enhance water security, renewable energy generation, irrigation development, flood management and socio-economic development in both countries.