1. MEMBERS PRESENT

Parliament of Angola

Hon. Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos (Speaker)

Hon. Josefina Perpétua P. Domingos Pitra Diakité

Hon. Helena Bonguela Abel

Hon. Luísa Francisco Pedro Damião

Hon. Ruth Adriano Mendes

Hon. Maria do Carmo Assis do Nascimento

Parliament of Botswana

Hon. Phandu Tombola Chaha Skelemani (Speaker)

Hon. Dumelang Saleshando

Hon. Polson Majaga

Hon. Talita Monnakgotla

Hon. Leepeetswe Lesedi

Hon. Mokwaledi I. Moswaane

Parliament of DRC

Hon. Mboso N’Kodia Pwanga Christophe (Speaker and President of SADC Parliamentary Forum)

Hon. Anne-Marie Mbilambangu

Hon. Andre-Leon Tumba

Parliament of Eswatini

Hon. Petros Mavimbela (Speaker)

Sen. Isaac Mmemo Magagula

Princess Phumelele Dlamini

Sen. Busisiwe Dlamini

Hon. Strydom Mpanza

Hon. Mabulala Maseko

Parliament of Lesotho

Hon. Speaker Sephiri Enoch Motanyane (Speaker)

Hon. Tsepang Tsita-Mosena

Hon. Peete Ramoqai Peete

Hon. Mphosi Nkase

Hon. Lekhetho Mosito

Hon. Ntsalla Mafa

Parliament of Madagascar

Hon. Christine Razanamahosoa H.

Hon. Deputy Speaker Lovanirina Célestin Fiarovana

Hon. Lova Herizo Rajaobelina

Hon. Christophe Tisiliva Diddiot

Hon. Marie Jeanne d’Arc Masy Goulamaly

Hon. Emiline Rakotobe Ramarosoa

Hon. Jimmy Gertrude Jhonny Donovan

Parliament of Malawi

Rt. Hon. Speaker Catherine Gatani Hara (Speaker)

Hon. Sam Kawale

Hon. Dennis Namachekecha

Hon. Deus Gumba

Hon. Bertha Ndebele

Hon. Lonie Chireje Phiri

Parliament of Mauritius

Hon. Sooroojdev Phokeer. GCSK, GOSK (Speaker)

Honourable Mohammud Zahid (Deputy Speaker)

Hon. Marie Joanne Sabrina Tour

Hon. Marie Genevieve Anquetil

Parliament of Mozambique

Esperança Laurinda Francisco Nhiuane Bias (Speaker)

Hon. Carlos Moreira Vasco

Hon. Carlos Manuel

Hon. Jerónima Agostinho

Hon. Maria Marta Mateus Fernando

Parliament of Namibia

Hon. Prof. Peter H. Katjavivi (Speaker)

Hon. Agnes Kafula

Hon. Paula Kooper

Hon. Vipuakuje Muharukua

Hon. Utaara Mootu

Hon. Phillipus Katamelo

Parliament of Seychelles

Honourable Speaker Roger Mancienne (Speaker)

Hon. Rosie Bistoquet

Hon. Audrey Vidot

Hon. Kelly Samynadin

Hon. Richard Labrosse

Hon. Rocky Uranie

Parliament of South Africa

Hon. Thandi Modise (Speaker)

Hon. Daren. Bergman

Hon. Tshitereke Baldwin Matibe

Hon. Desmond Lawrence Moela

Hon. Rosina Ntsetsana Komane

Parliament of Zimbabwe

Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda (Speaker)

Hon. Tambudzani Mohadi

Hon. Goodlucky Kwaramba

Hon. Paurina Mpariwa

Hon. Anele Ndebele

Hon. Dought Ndiweni

2. MOMENT OF SILENT PRAYER OR MEDITATION

2.1 The Acting President, Hon. Speaker Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, took the Chair and allowed Members the opportunity for silent prayer or meditation.

2.2 The Acting President allowed Members the opportunity for a Moment of Silence for the passing on of Founding President of Zambia, H.E. Dr Kenneth Kaunda, who died on 17^th June 2021.

2.3 The Acting President allowed Members the opportunity for a Moment of Silence for the passing on of a staff Member of the SADC PF Secretariat, Mr Michel Mweza, a citizen of DRC, who died on 16^th June 2021.

3. ANNOUNCEMENTS BY THE ACTING PRESIDENT

3.1 Announcements on Using the Zoom Platform

The SADC PF Acting President informed the Plenary Assembly on the guidelines and etiquette on the use of the Zoom Platform during this Session.

3.2 Oath or Affirmation of Adherence – Article 7 of the Constitution

The Acting President invited the Secretary General to administer to new Members attending the Plenary Assembly for the first time, the Oath or Affirmation of Adherence in line with Article 8(4), as follows:

NAMIBIA

Hon. Utaara Mootu

Hon. Vipuakuje Muharukua

Hon. Paula Kooper

Hon. Phillipus Katamelo

SEYCHELLES

Honourable Speaker Roger Mancienne

Honourable Kelly Samynadin

Honourable Rocky Uranie.

ZIMBABWE

Hon. Paurina Mpariwa

3.3 Introduction of Observer

The Acting President welcomed observers who were attending the 49^th Plenary Assembly Virtual Session pursuant to Rule 44 of the Rules of Procedure.

3.4 Apologies Received

The Acting President advised that the Parliaments of Tanzania and Zambia had tendered apologies.

4. NOTICES OF MOTION

The Acting President called for notices of Motions.

(i) Hon. Dr. FIAROVANA Lovanirina Celéstin, SADC PF Vice-President, gave notice for 26^th June 2021, to move a Motion, “That the 49^th Plenary Assembly do adopt the Report of the Executive Committee on Policy Matters and Administrative Matters.”

(ii) Hon. Darren BERGMAN gave notice for the 26^th June 2021,
to move a Motion ” That 49^th Plenary Assembly do adopt the Report of the Executive Committee on Financial Matters (Treasurer’s Report).”

(iii) Hon. Anele NDEBELE
gave notice for the 26^th June 2021, to move a Motion “That 49^th Plenary Assembly do adopt the Report of Trade, Investment, Finance and Industry.”

(iv) Hon. Andre Leon TUMBA gave notice for the 26^th June 2021, to move a Motion ”

That 49^th Plenary Assembly do adopt the Report of Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources as well as the Report of the Regional Parliamentary Model Laws Oversight Committee.”

(v) Hon. Rosie BISTOQUET gave notice for the 26^th June 2021, to move a Motion ”

That 49^th Plenary Assembly do adopt the Report of the Joint Session of the Standing Committees on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources; Human and Social Development and Special Programmes; and Gender Equality, Women Advancement and Youth Development.”

(vi) Hon. Jerónima AUGSTINHO gave notice for the 27^th June 2021, to move a Motion ” That 49^th Plenary Assembly do adopt the Report of the

Standing Committee on Democratisation, Governance and Human Rights.”

(vii) Hon. Rosie BISTOQUET gave notice for the 27^th June 2021,
to move a Motion ” That 49^th Plenary Assembly do adopt the Report of

the Standing Committee on Human and Social Development and Special Programmes” and Joint Session for SADC PF Standing Committees and the RWPC.”

5. COMMENCEMENT OF BUSINESS

5.1 Adoption of the Motion on the Report of the Executive Committee on Policy Matters and Administrative Matter

Hon. Dr. FIAROVANA Lovanirina Celéstin, SADC PF Vice-President, seconded by Hon. Darren Bergman, moved that the 49^th Plenary Assembly adopt the Report of the Executive Committee on Policy Matters and Administrative Matters”

Debate arises

Motion put and adopted.

5.2 Adoption of the Motion on the Report of the Executive Committee on Financial Matters (Treasurer’s Report)

Hon. Darren BERGMAN seconded by Hon. Dought NDIWENI, moved that the 49^th Plenary Assembly adopt the Report of the Executive Committee on Financial Matters
(Treasurer’s Report)”

Debate arises

Motion put and adopted.

SADC PF President Resumed his Chair.

5.3 Statement by Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo MUDENDA, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zimbabwe on decisions by the 142^nd Assembly of the IPU and Related Meetings held virtually from 24th to 28th May 2021 in terms of Rule 45 of the Rules of Procedure

Hon. Advocate Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo MUDENDA, Speaker of the National Assembly of Zimbabwe delivered a Statement on decisions by the 142 ^nd Assembly of the IPU and Related Meetings held virtually from 24th to 28th May 2021 in terms of Rule 45 of the Rules of Procedure.

No debate arises

Motion put and adopted.

5.4 Adoption of the Motion on the Report of the Standing Committee on Trade, Investment, Finance and Industry

Hon. Anele NDEBELE seconded by Hon. Ruth Adriano MENDES moved that the 49 ^th Plenary Assembly adopt the Report of Trade, Investment Finance and Industry.

Debate arises

Motion put and adopted.

5.5 Adoption of the Motion on the Report of the Standing Committee on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources

Hon. Andre Leon TUMBA seconded by Hon. Lekhetho MOSITO moved that the 49 ^th Plenary Assembly adopt the Report of Food, Agriculture and
Natural Resources.

Debate arises

Motion put and adopted.

5.6 Adoption of the Motion on the Report of the Joint Session of the Standing Committees on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources; Human and Social Development and Special Programmes; and Gender Equality, Women Advancement and Youth Development

Hon. Rosie BISTOQUET seconded by Hon. TalitaTalita MONNAKGOTLA moved that the 49^th Plenary Assembly adopt the Report of the Joint Session of the Standing Committees on Food, Agriculture and Natural Resources; Human and Social Development and Special Programmes; and Gender Equality, Women Advancement and Youth Development.

Motion deferred.

6. ADJOURNMENT

The Plenary Assembly adjourned at 16:50 hours until Sunday, 27 June 2021 at 10:00 hours.

HON. MBOSO N’KODIA PWANGA CHRISTOPHE PRESIDENT OF THE SADC PARLIAMENTARY FORUM

…but full regional integration must come first

By Moses Magadza 

“The African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) is one of the key drivers that can position Africa as an economic powerhouse,”

declared the President of Botswana Mokgweetsi Masisi, while officially opening the 49^th Plenary Assembly Session virtually yesterday (Friday 25 June 2021). 

“However, it is important to underscore that, the successful implementation of the SADC integration agenda is a prerequisite for the true realisation of the AfCFTA,”, he continued. 

Masisi stressed that domestication of AfCFTA at national level was “central to (its) effective implementation”.  

AfCTA was agreed upon in 2018 and came into force in January this year. It seeks, among others, to catalyze inclusive and sustainable development through boosting intra-Africa trade while giving Africa a united and thus bigger voice in global trade negotiations. 

The SADC PF brings together 15 national parliaments, 13 of which are represented at the ongoing Plenary Assembly Session. The Plenary was scheduled to run for three says under the theme :‘Leveraging the AFCTA for post-COVID-19 economic recovery in Southern Africa: The role of the SADC Parliamentary Forum and National Parliaments’. 

Masisi expressed hope that negotiations within the framework of AfCTFA would “move beyond trade in goods and services, and take into consideration, other issues such as intellectual property rights, investment and competition policy”, which he said directly impact on trade flows. 

“They need to be further ironed out to ensure that the Free Trade Area operates without hindrances,” he cautioned.   

He hailed the coming into force of the AfCFTA as “the most significant milestone in Africa’s integration agenda” and sounded upbeat that the resultant market of close to 1.27 billion people and a combined Gross Domestic Product of over US$2.5 trillion would deepen regional economic cooperation in Africa. 

The Botswana head of state saluted the region’s parliamentarians for helping member states respond and mitigate the impact of the ongoing global COVID-19 pandemic but said their work remained cut. 

“The role of Parliamentarians has been key in ensuring effective responses to COVID-19. You have been critical in our engagement with communities and your sound advice to governments provided the best possible measures to put in place in the fight against COVID – 19,” he said.  

He said as the SADC Region angles for the benefits of the AfCFTA, the role of MPs would “even be more critical during the rebuilding of national economies”.  

In that regard, Masisi enjoined the region’s MPs “to move beyond political boundaries and put our nations, our region and our people first, for a quick economic recovery to take effect”.  

While acknowledging the fact that COVID-19 had wreaked havoc regionally and globally, the President enjoined the MPs to remain united and not allow “temporary circumstances to define the future of our region”. 

“Our common set of values that always bind us together – unity – peace – development, remain the foundation of our success and the pillar of our strength, even in the darkest hour of our time.” 

He added: “Our common set of values that always bind us together – unity – peace – development, remain the foundation of our success and the pillar of our strength, even in the darkest hour of our time.” 

Speaking at the same occasion, SADC PF Secretary General Boemo Sekgoma, said the hosting of the Plenary in spite of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, “demonstrates the resilience of the Forum as supported by all Member Parliaments, and embodies its determination and commitment to promoting inter-parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy”.

Turning to  key recent achievements of the Forum, Sekgoma said work was ongoing in developing SADC Model laws that member states can adapt or adopt as they see fit. 

“As we meet, two Model Laws are nearing finalisation. They are the SADC Model Law on Gender Based Violence, and the SADC Model Law on Public Financial Management,”

“As we meet, two Model Laws are nearing finalisation. They are the SADC Model Law on Gender Based Violence, and the SADC Model Law on Public Financial Management,” she said. 

She expressed optimism that the regional soft laws and others developed before them, would “contribute to the legal ecosystem of the SADC Region, and reinforce good governance, accountability and transparency, which are the hallmarks of parliamentary activity”. 

She said it was hoped that with COVID-19 likely to have a continuing impact on the lives of SADC consumers, the SADC Model Law on Public Financial Management would ensure that the rights of consumers are protected within the digital economy, “in which they will perform multiple transactions on-line”.  

She added: “Forum strives to uphold socio-economic inclusion of all segments of the SADC population, without discrimination, and assist Parliaments enact laws that are inclusive, purposeful, and responsive to the needs of the SADC citizenry.”  

Ends/. 

At the official opening of the 49th plenary assembly session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum hosted virtually by the Parliament of the Bostwana 25th June 2021

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SALUTATIONS

• His Excellency Dr Mokgweetsi Eric Keabetswe Masisi, President of the Republic of Botswana and our Guest of Honour;
• Hon. Christophe MBOSO N’KODIA PWANGA, SADC PF President and Speaker of the National Assembly of the Democratic Republic of Congo;
• Hon. Dr. FIAROVANA Lovanirina Celéstin, SADC PF Vice President;
• Hon. Phandu Tombola Chaha Skelemani, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly of Botswana and our Host for the 49^th Plenary Assembly;
• Hon. Professor Peter H. Katjavivi, Speaker of the National Assembly of Namibia and Host of the SADC PF Headquarters;
• Rt Hon Speaker Sephiri Motanyane, Speaker of the National Assembly of Lesotho;
• Honourable Speakers and Presiding Officers of National Parliaments and Heads of Delegations;
• Hon. Dr. Jago Woda Jeremiah Odok, Member of the East Africa Legislative Assembly, representing the Speaker, Rt. Hon. Martin Ngoga;
• Hon. Ann-Marie Mbilambangu, Chairperson of the Regional Women’s Parliamentary Caucus;
• Hon. Mmusi Kgafela, MP, Minister of Investment, Trade and Industry;
• Hon Cabinet Ministers here present in the Government of Botswana;
• Hon Mabuse Pule, MP, Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly of Botswana;
• Hon Dumelang Saleshando, MP, Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly of Botswana;
• Honourable Members of the Parliament of Botswana.
• Honourable Members of the SADC Parliamentary Forum;
• Kgosi Puso Gaborone, and Chairman of Ntlo ya Dikgosi;
• Ms Moggie Mbaakanyi, Chairperson of the Association of former Members of Parliament;
• His Worship Father Maphongo, Mayor of Gaborone;
• His Excellency Dr. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA);
• Her Excellency Paulina Mbala Elago, Executive Secretary, Southern Africa Customs Union (SACU);
• His.Excellency. Mr. Domingos Estevao Fernandes, High Commissioner of the Republic of Mozambique and Dean of the Diplomatic Corps;
• Your Excellencies, Members of the Diplomatic Corps and Representatives of Regional and International Organisations;
• Ms. Emma Peloetletse, Acting Permanent Secretary to the President in the Government of Botswana;
• Ms. Barbara Dithapo, Clerk of the National Assembly of Botswana and Chairperson of the SADC PF Committee of Clerks and Secretaries General
• Clerks and Secretaries General of SADC National Parliaments;
• Permanent Secretaries in the Government of Botswana;
• Distinguished Cooperating Partners;
• Distinguished Invited Observers and Guests;
• Staff of the National Assembly of Botswana and SADC National Parliaments;
• Staff of the SADC Parliamentary Forum
• Members of the Media;
• GOOD MORNING

I am delighted to introduce Delegates to this 49^th Plenary Assembly Session of the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum, (SADC PF).

HOSTING OF THE 49^TH PLENARY ASSEMBLY

I would like to start by congratulating the Host, the National Assembly of Botswana, led by Hon. Phandu Tombola Chaha Skelemani for successfully hosting this Plenary. We are indeed enjoying the hospitality and dedication of the staff and people of Botswana, albeit virtually.

The hosting of this Plenary in spite of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, which has drastically altered the way we do things, demonstrates the resilience of the Forum as supported by all Member Parliaments, and embodies its determination and commitment to promoting inter-parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy. Additionally, the sheer number and diversity of delegates to this Plenary, shows that we are making strides in the right direction.

Your Excellency, Honorable Speakers, Hon Members, distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

This is the 3^rd Plenary Assembly Session of the Forum which is being held virtually due to disruptions brought about by COVID-19. The first two Plenary Assemblies held under similar conditions took place last year. We are, grateful for the dedication of Member Parliaments, in the face of current trying times.

Whereas the pandemic has tried to distance us, technology has bonded us. I feel that we are actually closer and stronger. Indeed, although the pandemic continues to threaten inter-parliamentary cooperation and parliamentary democracy, Member Parliaments remain undeterred. It is thus with pride, that we meet for the 49^th Plenary Assembly Session as we brace for the 50^th Plenary Assembly that will mark our golden jubilee.

Before I introduce our esteemed delegates, I beg your indulgence to highlight some key achievements of our Forum since the last Plenary Assembly. These achievements in my view cement regional cooperation between Member Parliaments.

As we meet, two Model Laws are nearing finalisation. They are the SADC Model Law on Gender Based Violence, and the SADC Model Law on Public Financial Management. It is our fervent hope, that these legislative instruments will contribute to the legal ecosystem of the SADC Region, and reinforce good governance, accountability and transparency, which are the hallmarks of parliamentary activity.

Your Excellency, Honorable Speakers, Hon Members distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

Technology has become an essential part of the day-to-day life of SADC citizens. The Forum has accordingly embarked in the development of the SADC Model Law on the Digital Economy to guide Member States into the future.

With COVID-19 likely to have a continuing impact on the lives of SADC consumers, this Model Law will ensure that the rights of consumers are protected within the digital economy, in which they will perform multiple transactions on-line.

It is envisaged, also, that these Model Laws and other initiatives by the Forum, will further cement regional integration and consolidate the SADC identity, whereby the belief of shared SADC values, cultures and norms, strengthen the bonds of solidarity and cooperation. In this respect, the Forum is poised to act as an enabler of socio-economic change through concerted actions achieved through inclusive participation of all SADC Member States.

Similarly, the Forum strives to uphold socio-economic inclusion of all segments of the SADC population, without discrimination, and assist Parliaments enact laws that are inclusive, purposeful, and responsive to the needs of the SADC citizenry.

As part of our vision to act as the Flag-Bearer of Democratisation in our region, as a Forum we pledge to honour democracy in all its facets that are consonant with parliamentary activism.

At the same time, the Forum will continue collaborating with national Parliaments in spearheading the domestication of international and regional norms such as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), including SDG #3 on good health and well-being, commitments on Universal Health Coverage, as well as the Political Declaration on HIV and AIDS of 2021, this declaration calls for a rights-based approach to health. The impetus for domestication within a democratic framework, is likely to be crucial in the coming decades for the SADC region to meet its multiple health challenges, with HIV and COVID-19 constituting significant budgetary items that will call for continuous parliamentary appropriation of resources and oversight.

Your Excellency, Honorable Speakers, Hon Members distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

The various capacity building initiatives conducted by the Forum, have responded to the needs of progressive domestication of norms and have mirrored the culture of the Forum, which is to promote human rights and democratisation.

The SADC-PF has indeed led the region on themes such as elections, trade, natural resources governance, gender equality, women empowerment, budget analysis, ICT, and human resources. These have enhanced parliamentary processes while serving to strengthen the SADC region as a hub of parliamentary excellence.

Your Excellency, Honorable Speakers, Hon Members distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

The Forum remains committed to deepening regional parliamentary integration and to building the capacity of its Member Parliaments to face emerging challenges. It is pleasing to note that the Strategic Objectives of the Forum which were approved by the 43^rd Plenary Assembly have been advanced and implemented.

With that said, please permit me to now introduce our esteemed delegations to the 49th Plenary Assembly Session. (I wish to request the delegates to kindly wave their hands for the benefit of our Guest of Honour as I call their country):

1. The National Assembly of Angola, a Delegation of six (6) Members led by Hon. Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos, Speaker of the National Assembly of Angola;

Thank you are welcome.

2. The Parliament of Botswana, our gracious host, a Delegation of six (6) Members led by , Hon. Phandu Tombola Chaha Skelemani, Speaker of the National Assembly of Botswana;

3. The Parliament of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) a delegation of eleven (11) members led by the Speaker of the National Assembly and President of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, Hon. Christophe MBOSO N’KODIA PWANGA;

4. The Parliament of the Kingdom of Lesotho, a Delegation of seven (7) Members, led by Rt. Hon. Siphiri Motanyane, Speaker of the National Assembly;

5. The Parliament of the Kingdom of Eswatini, a Delegation of eight (8) Members, led by Hon. Petros Mavimbela, Speaker of the National Assembly;

6. The Parliament of Madagascar, a Delegation of Thirteen (13) Members led by the Hon. Dr. FIAROVANA Lovanirina Celéstin; Member of Parliament

7. The Parliament of Malawi, a Delegation of eight (8 Members led by the Rt. Hon. Catherine Gotani Hara, Speaker of Parliament;

8. The Parliament of Mauritius a Delegation of five (5) Members led by the Hon. Sooroojdev Phokeer, Speaker of National Assembly;

9. The National Assembly of Mozambique, a Delegation of five (5) Members led by Hon. Esperança Laurinda Francisco Nhiuane Bias Speaker of the National Assembly;

10. The National Assembly of Namibia, a Delegation of six (6) Members led Hon. Prof. Peter H. Katjavivi, MP

Speaker of the National Assembly and host of the SADC PF Headquarters;

11. The National Assembly of Seychelles, a Delegation of six (6) Members led by Hon. Roger Mancienne, Speaker of the National Assembly. Thankyou and You are most Welcome.

12. The Parliament of South Africa, a Delegation of six (6) Members led by Hon. Thandi Modise, Speaker of Parliament;

13. The Parliament of the Republic of Zimbabwe, a Delegation of six (6) Members led by Hon. Adv. Jacob Francis Nzwidamilimo Mudenda, Speaker of the National Assembly;

14. The Parliament of the United Republic of Tanzania and Zambia sent apologies;

15. The SADC PF Secretariat, a Delegation of 10 staff Members led by, the Secretary General.

16. Last but not least, all the staff from the National Assembly of Botswana here present.

 

Your Excellency, Honorable Speakers, Hon Members distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

 

INVITED GUESTS

Your Excellency, Honorable Speakers, Hon Members distinguished Ladies and Gentlemen,

WE ALSO HAVE INVITED RESOURCE PERSONS, Observers and Partners. These are:

1. H.E Dr. Wamkele Mene, Secretary General AfCFTA Secretariat;

2. Dr. Khutula Sibanda, Director: Directorate of Industrial Development and Trade, representing the Executive Secretary of SADC;

3. H.E. Paulina Mbala Elago, Executive Secretary, South African Customs Union (SACU);

4. Eva Bursvik, Counsellor, Programme Manager, Regional Development Cooperation Programme: Trade and Regional Economic Integration, Embassy of Sweden, Lusaka, Zambia;

5. Ms Angela Machonesa. Regional Head of Influencing and Strategic Communications Plan International Incooperation. Middle East, Eastern and Southern Africa (MEESA) NAIROBI, Kenya;

6. Dr. Adane Ghebremeskel (PhD), Project Executive Manager – Peace, Security and Governance, GIZ Cooperation for the Enhancement of SADC Regional Economic Integration (CESARE);

7. Cynthia Lungu, Designated Delegate, UNAIDS Regional Support Team ESA Region, Office of Johannesburg;

8. Rouzeh Eghtessadi (MPH), Executive Director, SAfAIDS Regional Office;

9. Mr Deprose Muchena, Executive Director for Southern and Eastern Africa, Amnesty International;

10. Professor Adebayo Olukoshi, International IDEA;

11. Mr Anesu Dera, Attorney, Designated representative. Centre for Applied Legal Studies, University of the Witwatersrand;

12. Julie Middleton , Consortium Project Manager, ActionAid International, and Clayton Vhumbunu, PSAM; and

13. Mr Stanley Nyamanhindi, Chief Executive Officer SADC Lawyers’ Association

 

Your Excellency, and Distinguished Delegates, may I conclude my statement by thanking the Government and the National Assembly of the Republic of Botswana through the Hon. Speaker of the National Assembly for graciously hosting the SADC PF 49th Plenary Assembly Session.

I wish all the Distinguished Delegates fruitful deliberations.

I THANK YOU, Muito Obrigado, Merci Beaucuop

GABORONE, BOTSWANA, 25th – 27th JUNE, 2021

Theme “Leveraging the AfCFTA for Post-Covid Economic Recovery in Southern Africa: The Role of SADC Parliamentary Forum and National Parliaments.”

Introduction
The information contained in this document is meant to guide all delegates to the 49th SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) Plenary Assembly which will be held virtually from 25th to 27th June, 2021.
The Parliament of Botswana is honoured to host the 49th Plenary Assembly of the SADC PF and would like to extend its warm welcome to all the delegates and officers.

Official Opening Ceremony

The Plenary Assembly will be officially opened on Friday 25^th June 2021 by His Excellency the President of the Republic of Botswana Dr Mokgweetsi E. K. Masisi. All delegates are expected to be logged in by 09:45 hours GMT +2 (Johannesburg Time Zone).

For the Purpose of Introduction of delegations, it would be appreciated if each National Parliament could ensure that the Leader of Delegation and his/her delegation are seated in one room for the official opening and the country’s national flag is placed behind the delegation.

Plenary Assembly Meetings

In order to ensure that Members are adequately supported for effective and efficient participation in the meetings, it would be advisable to for Members to participate from the vicinity of their respective Parliaments.

Registration

Registration of delegates will be conducted through zoom. All delegates should register in advance using the link below:-

The Host will open the Zoom platform 45 minutes before the start of the meeting to facilitate logging in.  

1. Click on the link in your invitation that was sent to your email to join the meeting via computer.
2. You have an opportunity to test your audio at this point by clicking on the “Test computer audio.” Once you are satisfied that your audio works, click on “Join with computer audio.”

Meeting Etiquette

All Delegates are required to be on video for the Plenary Assembly meetings for purposes of livestreaming and live broadcasting.

All Secretariat and support staff will be required to keep their videos off and mute their audio. Personal profile pictures will not be allowed and will be removed by the Host.

Documentation

Please note that all documentation for the meetings will be accessed at the following Link: https://plenary.sadcpf.org/

Language

The Meeting languages will be English, French and Portuguese. The Zoom application has an interpretation facility. Kindly click on the interpretation icon, located at the bottom of the screen. Select your preferred language and click on mute Original audio.

Communication with the Secretariat

All official correspondence should be addressed to:-

The Secretary General

SADC-Parliamentary Forum

Private Bag 13361

Windhoek

Namibia

Telephone:  +267612870000

Email:                  [email protected]

The following SADC-PF Secretariat may be contacted

SADC PF Secretariat

For Logistics and other general administrative issues contact Mrs Yapoka N Mungandi, Director of Administration, Finance and Human Resources, Cell: +264 813048395, Tel: +264 612870003, Email: [email protected]

Mr Ronald Windwaai, ICT Officer for Registration Email: [email protected] Cell: +264 812332473

For matters concerning the Business of the Plenary Session: Mr Sheuneni Kurasha, Parliamentary Business Focal Person, Cell: +264 814728438, Tel: +264 612870007, Email: [email protected]

Office of the Secretary General: Ms Agnes Lilungwe, Cell: +264 813946632, Tel: +264 612870013, Email: [email protected]