Participants at the Southern African Development Community Non-State Actors Workshop
By George Swarei
Harare, Zimbabwe – The Southern African Development Community (SADC) is convening a Capacity-Building Workshop on the implementation of the SADC Mechanism for Engaging with Non-State Actors (NSAs) from August 11-12, 2024, at the Rainbow Towers Hotel and Conference Centre in Harare.
In partnership with NSAs and supported by the European Union (EU), the hybrid workshop aims to enhance modalities for effective engagement under the recently approved mechanism and accreditation requirements. The workshop follows the approval of the SADC Mechanism for Engagement with NSAs by the SADC Council of Ministers in August 2022 and the subsequent approval of the SADC Accreditation Guidelines for Engagement with NSAs in March 2024.
As the region commences the pilot implementation phase, the workshop will reflect on progress and establish groundwork for future cooperation, marking a significant milestone in advancing the SADC regional integration agenda. The event provides an opportunity for civil societies to engage in meaningful discussions, taking place on the margins of the SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government.
Deputy Executive Secretary Angele Makombo N’tumba emphasized the importance of non-state actors in driving regional integration and development, calling for the operationalization of the SADC Accreditation Guidelines. The workshop is expected to play a crucial role in supporting this effort, bringing together stakeholders from across the region to enhance engagement and cooperation.
