Botswana has signed the Agreement Amending the SADC Treaty, marking a significant step in transforming the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) into a fully-fledged Regional Parliament.
The signing ceremony, held at the Office of the President in Gaborone, was officiated by Botswana’s President, Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, and attended by key regional leaders.
Hon. Advocate Jacob Mudenda, Speaker of the Parliament of Zimbabwe and Chairman of the Strategic Lobbying Team for the transformation of SADC PF
Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, Speaker of the Parliament of Zimbabwe and Chairman of the Strategic Lobbying Team for the transformation of SADC PF, led a high-level delegation to witness the occasion, which included Hon. Dithapelo Lefoko Keorapetse, Speaker of the National Assembly of Botswana, Hon. Thoko Didiza, Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa, and Hon. Moeti Ceasar Mohwasa, Minister for State President, among others.
Speaking at the event, Hon. Mudenda emphasized that Botswana’s signature was a major milestone, not only because the country hosts the SADC Secretariat but also because it demonstrates a commitment to regional integration and democracy. He noted that earlier this week, Madagascar’s President, His Excellency Andry Nirina Rajoelina, had also signed the Agreement, leaving Mauritius as the only remaining member state yet to do so. With Botswana and Madagascar now on board, Mudenda urged intensified diplomatic engagement to secure Mauritius’ signature and ensure full participation of all SADC PF members in the transformation process.
He further highlighted that while the signatures are a crucial step, the transformation agenda requires additional efforts, particularly the ratification of the Protocol on the SADC Parliament, which needs approval from two-thirds of SADC member states—11 out of 16—for it to come into effect. He called on all countries, including Botswana, to review and provide input on the Protocol before the 45th SADC Summit, warning that missing this opportunity could delay progress until the 46th Summit, prolonging the process by another year.
Hon. Mudenda’s leadership in driving the transformation agenda received widespread recognition. President Boko commended his strategic leadership and dedication, while Botswana’s Speaker, Hon. Keorapetse, praised his unwavering commitment to strengthening regional integration. Their remarks underscored the importance of Mudenda’s role in pushing forward a vision that will enhance legislative harmonization, democratic governance, and multilateral cooperation within the SADC region.
With Botswana’s endorsement secured, the focus now shifts to ensuring Mauritius’ participation and expediting the ratification of the Protocol. Once the required number of states ratify the document, the SADC Regional Parliament will become operational, reinforcing the bloc’s commitment to deeper regional governance and sustainable development.
