GIZ Adviser Emphasizes Vital Role of SADC Committees in Integration
As SADC continues to navigate the complexities of regional cooperation, the collaboration between state and non-state actors will be essential in achieving the ambitious goals set out in the RISDP 202
HARARE, Zimbabwe-A GIZ senior adviser highlighted SADC National Committees' crucial role in advancing regional integration during the 4th Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the SADC RISDP 2020-2030, writes Winston Mwale.
Marlon Zakeyo, who is deeply involved in the GIZ’s Strengthening National-Regional Linkages (SNRL) program, didn’t mince words about the challenges that lie ahead.
He stressed that despite clear directives from SADC’s founding documents, many member states have yet to fully operationalize these committees, leaving significant gaps in the implementation of regional policies at the national level.
"Too many of our member states either lack functional SADC National Committees or have allowed them to become dormant," Zakeyo said.
"This program was launched specifically to address these shortcomings, ensuring that these structures are not just established, but are active and effective."
A Strategic Push for Regional Cohesion
Zakeyo's remarks highlighted the broader goals of the SNRL program, which is underwritten by the German Federal Ministry of Economic Cooperation and Development.
This initiative is not merely about establishing bureaucratic frameworks but is aimed at creating a robust infrastructure for regional cooperation.
The SNRL’s efforts are targeted at a broad coalition of actors, from SADC National Contact Points to non-state entities, ensuring that the integration agenda is driven at multiple levels.
Zakeyo outlined three key pillars of the SNRL program:
Institutional Strengthening: At its core, the program seeks to bolster the institutional framework necessary for effective regional integration. This involves not only the creation of SNCs but also ensuring their long-term functionality and impact.
Monitoring and Evaluation: Recognizing that policies are only as good as their implementation, the SNRL focuses on establishing systems to monitor and evaluate the progress of regional integration efforts across member states.
Enhanced Communication: The program also aims to improve how SADC communicates with its citizens. Zakeyo noted a significant awareness gap, with many of the region's 300 million residents unaware of how national policies link to regional initiatives. "Our goal is to close that gap, making sure that citizens understand and feel the benefits of SADC membership," he emphasized.
Bringing Non-State Actors to the Table
Zakeyo didn’t just stop at government structures; he also highlighted the vital role of non-state actors (NSAs) in driving the integration process.
According to Zakeyo, these actors are not just auxiliary players but are critical to the success of SADC’s ambitious agenda.
Their involvement is mandated by key SADC documents, and Zakeyo made it clear that their participation is non-negotiable.
"The participation of non-state actors is a foundational element of the regional integration process," Zakeyo asserted. "Their voices need to be at the table to ensure that the policies we craft are comprehensive and inclusive."
Zakeyo pointed to specific examples of successful collaboration with NSAs, particularly in Malawi and Mozambique. In Malawi, the SNRL program partnered with the National Initiative for Civic Education (NICE) to increase NSA engagement in regional integration efforts.
Meanwhile, Mozambique’s SNC, known locally as CUNSADC, has been lauded as a model for the region, demonstrating how a well-functioning SNC can effectively involve non-state actors in national and regional policy formulation.
Barriers to Progress and Strategic Recommendations
While Zakeyo acknowledged the successes, he was also candid about the hurdles that remain. He noted that only half of SADC’s 16 member states have established SNCs, and among those, functionality varies widely.
He identified several factors that can either enable or impede the effective operation of these committees:
Political Commitment: Zakeyo emphasized that political will is paramount. Without strong backing from both state and non-state actors, SNCs struggle to fulfill their mandates.
Legislative Support and Budgeting: He also pointed out that legal frameworks and budget allocations are essential for the sustainability of SNCs. "You cannot build a house without a foundation," Zakeyo said, underscoring the need for solid legislative backing and consistent funding.
Capacity and Resources: Another significant challenge is the limited capacity of many SNCs. This includes not just financial resources, but also the human capital required to carry out their duties effectively.
Inclusive Participation: The inclusion of non-state actors remains uneven across the region, and Zakeyo stressed that this must change for SNCs to be truly effective.
In his closing remarks, Zakeyo called for greater political engagement and resource allocation to strengthen SNCs across the region.
He also advocated for increased peer learning among member states, proposing a peer review mechanism to facilitate the sharing of best practices.
"There’s a growing demand for member states to learn from each other," Zakeyo observed. "We need to foster a culture of collaboration, where member states can exchange ideas and strategies for setting up and sustaining SNCs."
Spotlight on Mozambique’s Success and Regional Efforts
One of the standout examples Zakeyo cited was Mozambique, where the SNC has not only been operational since 2003 but has also been deeply inclusive of non-state actors.
This model has proven effective in coordinating national strategies with SADC’s broader goals, particularly in areas like the ratification of regional protocols and the preparation of national positions for SADC summits.
"Mozambique’s SNC is fully funded by the state and has been decentralized to include provincial representation," Zakeyo noted. "This model could serve as a blueprint for other member states looking to enhance their own SNCs."
Zakeyo also touched on ongoing efforts in other countries, including South Africa, where the SNRL program is in the early stages of helping to establish a national committee.
The goal is to ensure that South Africa, one of SADC’s most influential members, has a fully functional SNC that includes strong NSA participation.
Looking Ahead: Building a Stronger SADC
As the dialogue wrapped up, there was a consensus among participants that while challenges remain, the path forward involves stronger collaboration and more inclusive participation.
Zakeyo’s presentation underscored the necessity of building robust national structures that align with SADC’s regional goals, ensuring that the benefits of integration are felt by all citizens.
"The road ahead will not be easy, but with the right commitment and resources, we can make significant progress," Zakeyo concluded.
"Effective SNCs are the key to unlocking the full potential of SADC’s regional integration agenda."
The dialogue highlighted the ongoing efforts to strengthen SNCs, underscoring their pivotal role in ensuring the success of SADC’s regional integration plans.
As SADC continues to navigate the complexities of regional cooperation, the collaboration between state and non-state actors will be essential in achieving the ambitious goals set out in the RISDP 2020-2030.
With sustained support from initiatives like the SNRL program, SADC is poised to make significant strides in its integration efforts, bringing tangible benefits to millions across the region.