Online Reporter
Rutendo Nyeve, Victoria Falls Reporter
The SADC PF has commended Zimbabwe for its leadership in regional economic development and democratic governance that has played a pivotal role in shaping Southern Africa’s future.
Speaking at the 57th Plenary Assembly Session currently underway in Victoria Falls, the SADC PF President and Speaker of the National Assembly of Madagascar, Justin Tokely, described Zimbabwe as a trailblazer in modern agriculture, mining, and industrial diversification, reinforcing its resilience and competitiveness on the global stage.
“We are indeed fortunate to be in Zimbabwe, a country which is pioneering in modern agriculture, mining, and other emerging industries. As you may be aware, the Republic of Zimbabwe is world-renowned for its export diversification policy and the zeal of its workforce, which makes the country both competitive and resilient on the world stage,” he said.
Mr Tokely highlighted Zimbabwe’s historical significance in advancing regional democracy, recalling its foundational role in establishing the SADC PF in 1997.
“Zimbabwe has been a fervent proponent of regional democracy. Being here today feels more like a return to the very origins of the parliamentary resolve that gave birth to our organisation. This is in itself a reaffirmation of the foundational vision, values, and collective will that shaped our existence,” said Mr Tokely.
Meanwhile, Mr Tokely has outlined the Forum’s growing influence in shaping legal standards, fostering democratic accountability, and enhancing inter-parliamentary cooperation.
“In the past few years, this august Plenary Assembly has been the hallmark of constructive resolutions which have assisted in heightening inter-parliamentary cooperation and diplomacy. The Forum is increasingly positioning itself as a prominent leader in normative legal standards, promoting a culture of democracy and accountability across Southern Africa,” he said.
He noted that the SADC PF has evolved into a vibrant inter-parliamentary body, amplifying democratic values beyond the region. He said key initiatives such as virtual public hearings conducted by Standing Committees have strengthened citizen engagement on critical issues, including public health, gender equality, and fiscal governance.
“This direct engagement with citizens constitutes the pinnacle of participatory democracy, whilst the Forum aspires to bridge the gap between MPs and citizens in between election cycles,” he said.
He reaffirmed the Forum’s commitment to institutional excellence, detailing robust internal governance mechanisms, including anti-corruption policies, risk management frameworks, and capacity-building programmes for parliamentarians and staff.
“These internal arrangements, as well as external goals, render the Forum a credible inter-parliamentary body vested with transparency and long-term sustainability,” he said.
Looking ahead, the SADC PF remains resolute in driving democratisation and socio-economic transformation, with the 57th Assembly set to deliberate on forward-looking motions aimed at preparing regional parliaments for future challenges.
Mr Tokely further called for unity and sustained progress.
“Our resolve as a region stands tall and allows us to continue spearheading democratisation through the motions of this august Assembly. This clearly demonstrates the Forum’s vision to be forward-looking and to prepare parliaments to embrace the future,” he said.
@nyeve14
Bongani Ndlovu