Regional RISDP NSA Dialogue Highlights Urgent Calls for Accountability
The Third Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the SADC RISDP 2020–2030, taking place 13-14 September 2023, is expected to feature discussions encompassing a wide range of critical topics.
Lilongwe, Malawi-In a comprehensive overview of the developments and calls for action, Rachel Gondo, Regional Learning Officer from the Public Social Accountability Monitor (PSAM) at Rhodes University, provided insights into the outcomes of the September 2022 Regional RISDP NSA Dialogue, writes Winston Mwale.
The Third Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the SADC RISDP 2020–2030, taking place 13-14 September 2023, is expected to feature discussions encompassing a wide range of critical topics.
Gondo commenced her presentation by acknowledging the diverse assembly at the meeting, which included non-state actors, sex activists, and government representatives.
Her primary objective was to shed light on the interventions made by non-state actors (NSAs) in various areas and identify potential pathways for progress.
One noticeable trend she highlighted was the increase in both conveners and thematic areas, emphasising the significance of broader networking and representation.
Gondo expressed pride in the PSAM's role in fostering this growth.
A key theme in the dialogue was the need for a multi-stakeholder approach and co-production at different implementation levels of the RISDP.
Integrity, transparency, and accountable use of public resources were reiterated as essential principles.
Gondo emphasized the tangible integration of equity in policy design and implementation, particularly in addressing the pressing issue of the climate crisis.
Reflecting on the previous year's observations, Gondo noted concerns about the lack of clarity on climate processes, information accessibility, and the enabling environment for practices such as agroecology and sexual and reproductive health decisions.
Equity in resource distribution and public policy decision-making also remained significant issues.
Gondo elaborated on the PSA Alliance's mission to connect regional commitments to national and grassroots levels, ensuring that services meet the needs of citizens in areas such as health, education, and nutrition.
She emphasized the importance of key platforms and processes in translating commitments into action. These included SADC directorates, the SADC ELEANEE system, and the SNC, which plays a crucial role in reporting progress.
Gondo enumerated the calls made during the 2022 dialogue, including the adoption of blueprint guidelines, operationalizing the NSA engagement mechanism, creating a funding facility for non-state actors, and facilitating joint monitoring, evaluation, and reflection.
The importance of resource mobilization for SADC activities, including the RISDIP, was emphasized, along with the inclusion of women, youth, and sexual and reproductive health interventions. Member states were urged to focus on sustainable domestic resource growth.
Ensuring integrity in resource management, good governance, and accountability was another key call, with an emphasis on the timely provision of information and awareness on various scorecards and model laws.
The need for member states to enable non-state actors to provide input at the national level and enhance communication and media coordination at the regional level was highlighted.
Gondo also acknowledged the progress made in various areas, including the release of the SRHL strategy scorecard and revisions to the SADC framework for financing in HIV and health.
She also touched on efforts to simplify the SADC Model Law on Public Service Management and the establishment of the Senate Parliament and its engagement mechanism.
The dialogue is expected to highlight a wealth of activity and commitment to advancing the SADC RISDP, setting a positive tone for future efforts to strengthen regional development and accountability.