Regional economic communities (RECs) have become increasingly important players in implementing post-conflict reconstruction and development (PCRD) as levels of intra-state conflict rise in Africa. The role of regional economic communities was examined in this paper, in terms of how they can implement PCRD. The SADC and South Africa’s foreign policy regarding the continent is then explored. The SADC’s structures and how the organisation conceptualises peace and security are also explained. Next, the SADC’s key documents, dealing with peace, security and development is then discussed. Opportunities are then identified for South Africa to work more closely with the SADC to implement PCRD and, finally, policy recommendations are made.
