#RISDPDialogue: SADC National Committees Vital in RISDP Monitoring, says GIZ-SNRL Presenter
Speaking during the event held both virtually and in-person across multiple locations, Zakeyo shed light on the mission and significance of SNCs within the SADC framework.
Lilongwe, Malawi- Marlon Zakeyo of GIZ-SNRL emphasised the critical role of SADC National Committees (SNCs) in monitoring the Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) during the Third Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the SADC RISDP 2020–2030, writes Winston Mwale.
Speaking during the event held both virtually and in-person across multiple locations, Zakeyo shed light on the mission and significance of SNCs within the SADC framework.
He also provided insights into the Strengthening National Regional Linkages program (SNRL), funded by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development, which aims to enhance member states' capacity to coordinate and implement SADC's regional integration agenda.
Zakeyo outlined three primary areas of focus for SNRL's current phase, running from August 2022 to July 2035.
These areas include strengthening institutional frameworks, assessing the impact and benefits of SADC's regional integration agenda, and fostering collaboration among stakeholders.
He underlined the inclusive and SADC-led approach of the SNRL program, emphasizing that it works closely with national partners and utilizes SADC systems for monitoring implementation.
The core of Zakeyo's presentation revolved around SADC National Committees (SNCs), which are established by the SADC Treaty and are crucial for driving the RISDP's implementation at the national level.
He highlighted that SNCs are explicitly provided for under Article 16 of the SADC Treaty, emphasizing their central role in coordinating and overseeing national-level SADC programs.
Zakeyo also stressed the importance of legal mandates and legislation in supporting the operations and resourcing of SNCs. He explained that legal mandates often determine access to resources from central budgeting authorities, emphasizing the need for clear legal frameworks to strengthen SNCs.
Additionally, Zakeyo presented key observations from SNRL's previous phase, emphasizing the positive contributions of SNCs, such as their role in coordinating National Implementation Plans for the RISDP and facilitating SADC meetings.
In terms of recommendations, Zakeyo highlighted the urgency of operationalizing SNCs in member states, suggesting that approximately 50% of member states have functional SNCs.
He also stressed the need to enhance communication processes around regional integration to increase citizen participation and understanding.
The presentation concluded with a call for the re-establishment of a platform for SADC national committees, fostering collaboration and knowledge exchange among member states.
The Third Regional Dialogue for Non-State Actors on the SADC RISDP 2020–2030 provided valuable insights into the critical role of SNCs in advancing regional integration in the Southern African Development Community.