SADC Parliamentary Forum Moving Towards Regional Integration
In a progressive stride towards fostering regional unity, the President of the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Parliamentary Forum has articulated the significance of transforming the Forum into a fully-fledged regional Parliament. This transformation, now in its pivotal stages, promises to enhance the institution’s ability to contribute meaningfully to the SADC regional integration agenda, promoting collaboration and economic growth across member countries.
Tokely Justin, who holds the dual role of the Speaker of Madagascar’s Parliament and president of the Parliamentary Forum, recently led a delegation of esteemed MPs on a courtesy visit to President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah at State House. The discussions highlighted the importance of this evolution in the SADC Parliament’s function. Justin emphasized that the transformation will empower lawmakers across the region to take a more active role in addressing shared challenges.
In a landmark decision taken in 2022, SADC leaders ratified an agreement to establish the SADC Parliament as an essential institution under Article 9 of the SADC Treaty. This agreement is a game-changer, designed to enhance legislative collaboration across the 16 member states. So far, an impressive 13 countries have signed the amendment to the SADC Treaty, including Namibia, signaling a strong commitment to regional cooperation.
During their timely meeting, President Nandi-Ndaitwah expressed her confidence in the critical role of lawmakers in advancing SADC’s objectives. She noted that the convergence of the Parliamentary Forum in Windhoek coincides with a crucial period for the region, which is keenly anticipating lawmaker contributions toward its economic and social development.
The delegation, consisting of representatives from various SADC nations, was in Windhoek for the Forum’s inaugural and orientation meeting, further underscoring the collaborative spirit among these nations. With this transformative process on track, the SADC Parliamentary Forum is set to pave the way for a more integrated and robust regional legislative framework.
As African nations continue to navigate both opportunities and challenges, the establishment of a regional Parliament represents a significant leap towards unity and a more cohesive regional identity. The work being done by leaders like President Nandi-Ndaitwah and Speaker Tokely Justin sends a resounding message about the potential of collective action in uplifting the Southern African region.
Stay tuned to Africazine for more updates on regional developments and insights into the journey towards integration in Southern Africa!
