The Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) is making significant strides toward its transformation into a fully-fledged SADC Parliament. This initiative, spearheaded by a high-level delegation led by Speaker Advocate Jacob Mudenda, represents a major step forward in enhancing regional integration and cooperation across the SADC region.
The delegation, which included parliamentary leaders from Botswana, South Africa, Zambia, Namibia, and Angola, has been actively engaging with SADC member states to secure their support for this important transformation. The goal is to establish the SADC Parliament as a key regional institution that will foster collaboration, share legislative best practices, and contribute to the broader development goals of the region.
One of the most encouraging aspects of this initiative is the growing support from member states. To date, 12 countries have already signed the Agreement Amending the SADC Treaty, signaling their commitment to recognizing the SADC Parliament as an official regional body. This milestone reflects the region’s collective dedication to advancing integration and ensuring that the voices of all member states are heard in the decision-making process.
Advocate Mudenda and his team have emphasized that the transformation of the SADC PF into a regional parliament will not infringe on national sovereignty or impose additional financial burdens on member states. Instead, it will build on the existing structure of the SADC PF, which has a strong track record of financial responsibility and transparent governance.
The establishment of the SADC Parliament is seen as a positive development for the region, as it will provide a platform for increased parliamentary collaboration, helping to address common challenges and seize opportunities in a coordinated manner. This transformation is particularly timely as the region focuses on key areas such as industrialization, economic growth, and the promotion of parliamentary democracy.
By moving forward with the transformation of the SADC PF into a regional parliament, member states are demonstrating their commitment to a more integrated and united Southern Africa. This initiative is poised to strengthen the bonds between SADC countries, fostering a sense of shared purpose and collective progress for the benefit of all citizens in the region.
