SADC Parliamentary Forum

SADC Parliamentary Forum Executive Committee, Suspends Dr Esau Chiviya

01 Jun. 2018

Communiques

Files:

Dr Esau Chiviya Suspension HOT

(0 votes)

20-08-2018

445.29 KB

3 231

Download

The SADC Parliamentary Forum has for some time now been dealing with certain matters of an administrative, governance and policy nature guided by resolutions of its Plenary Assembly as well tasks assigned its various sub committees. The Executive Committee of the Forum met in Windhoek, Namibia from 31 May to 1 June 2018 to deliberate on some of the matters. The Sub Committees duly tabled their reports on their various assignments.

Informed by the findings of these Sub Committees, the Executive Committee has taken a decision to place the Secretary General of SADC PF on suspension pending the institution of disciplinary proceedings on the various issues raised by the Sub Committees. The Secretary General has, therefore been placed on suspension accordingly.

A Disciplinary tribunal has also been established comprising five members and chaired by Hon. Advocate Duma Gideon Boko, MP which will commence its work immediately to ensure that this matter is settled expeditiously in the best interests of all parties concerned.

In the interim, the Director of Programmes, Ms. Boemo Sekgoma has been appointed as the Acting Secretary General.

This remains an internal matter and the Executive Committee assures all its cooperating partners and stakeholders that all its decisions are to ensure proper governance and the highest levels of accountability.

THIS COMMUNIQUE IS ISSUED BY THE PRESIDENT OF THE SADC PARLIAMENTARY FORUM, HONOURABLE SPEAKER FERNANDO DA PIEDADE DIAS DOS SANTOS

SADC Pf Mourns Hon Nora Schimming-Chase

22 Mar. 2018

Press Release

Staff Writer

The SADC Parliamentary Forum has expressed profound sadness following the passing on of former diplomat and Member of Parliament Nora Schimming-Chase.

In a statement, SADC PF Secretary General, Dr Esau Chiviya offered “deepest condolences” to the Government and people of Namibia as well as the entire Schimming-Chase family.

“A respected diplomat and fearless advocate of the rights of women and girls, Hon Schimming-Chase diligently served as Vice-Chairperson of the SADC PF from 15^th November 2006 to 27 November 2008. Whenever she presided over the Plenary Assembly Session in place of the Chairperson, she did so with unrivalled eloquence and firmness,” Chiviya said.

The SG said Schimming-Chase once served, also, as a Member of the HIV and AIDS Standing Committee of the SADC Parliamentary Forum from June 2006 to November 2008.

SADC PF Secretary General, Dr Esau Chiviya“Overall, she devoted a lot of her time and energy furthering the ideals of SADC PF. Namibia and indeed the continent have lost a steadfast advocate for human rights. Our thoughts and prayers are with all those whose lives were positively impacted by this great woman. Her passing on is a major loss,” he said.

His Royal Highness Prince Guduza, the former Speaker of the National Assembly of Swaziland, who also once served as chairperson of the SADC PF expressed “great shock and a deep sense of sadness” following Schimming –Chase’s death.

“I recall with gratitude how much of a very wise and intelligent person she was. She added value to the very many important tasks that the SADC PF had charged us with,” HRH Guduza said in a statement.

He said the late Schimming-Chase supported ongoing efforts to transform the SADC PF into a Regional Parliament. He added that she a stickler for optimal use of scarce resources at the Forum and cherished peace and tranquillity.

“She was instrumental in motivating Presiding Officers (Speakers) from various countries that are represented in the SADC PF, to go on a goodwill mission and ascertain that the government of Zimbabwe was operating in conformity with the guidelines and dictates of the Government of National Unity (GNU.)”

HRH Guduza said the former diplomat had remarkable leadership qualities, exuded authority and diligently presided over the Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC PF whenever she acted as Chairperson.

“She was an extraordinarily brilliant and gifted person.”

Botswana’s former MP Ambassador Duke LefhokoBotswana’s former MP Ambassador Duke Lefhoko, described the late Chase as “the embodiment of kindness, resoluteness, candidness, excellence and diplomatic finesse.”

He said” “She was endowed with the true lion heart trait that I find common among women rather than men.”

He added that Schimming-Chase was a brave woman.

Amb Lefhoko worked with her within the SADC PF when he was Treasurer and subsequently Vice Chairperson of the Forum.

“We participated together in some Election Observation Missions in the SADC Region. She was meticulous at work.”

He recalled that Schimming-Chase was deeply hurt and shed a tear when the Executive within the SADC Region “dealt the SADC Tribunal a fatal blow.”

He said Schimming-Chase was a “true democrat” and said her passing on was a loss not only to Namibia, SADC and Africa, but the rest of the world.

“She possessed a rare trait of being an avid listener and a leader in conversation,” he concluded.

Lesotho bites the bullet on key populations

17 Abr. 2018

Human and Social Development and Special Programmes

Staff Writer

MASERU- The Mountain Kingdom of Lesotho will soon begin a process of reviewing and where necessary, reforming national laws and policies as the country takes bold steps to ensure greater access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights, HIV and AIDS services for all her citizens.

Recent outreach and oversight missions to various health and correctional facilities in parts of Lesotho by Members of Parliament and Senators exposed gaps in the country’s SRHR, HIV and AIDS response which were negatively affecting some citizens, especially key populations.

The MPs and Senators who belong to the Social Cluster, HIV and AIDS and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) Committees in the National Assembly, met various people including sex workers and members of the LGBTI community. They then compiled reports which they shared during unprecedented roundtable discussions with Cabinet Ministers and Permanent Secretaries of relevant line government Ministries here last week.

In impassioned submissions, the lawmakers implored the Ministers to take decisive steps to ensure that the rights of all citizens including key populations were upheld so that universal access to SRHR, HIV and AIDS services becomes a reality.

The Minister of Justice, Human Rights and Correctional Services, Hon Mokhele Moletsane, one of the Ministers that received the reports, immediately took heed and promised action.

In an exclusive interview, the Minister commended the lawmakers for undertaking the oversight missions and for sharing their findings.

“This has been a very useful and important gathering where, as Ministers, MPs, Non-Governmental Organisations and government officials we interacted on very important issues of HIV and AIDS in relation to the so-called key populations,” he said.

He added that the meeting had enabled stakeholders to better appreciate the work that the SADC Parliamentary Forum was doing in responding to the global HIV and AIDS epidemic under the SRHR, HIV and AIDS Governance Project that Sweden and Norway are funding in seven SADC Member States including Lesotho.

“The invitation by the Portfolio Committee to Ministries that are directly working with Key Populations (the Ministry of Justice, Human Rights and Correctional Services which deals with safe custody of inmates; Ministry of Gender; the Ministry of Health; and the Ministry of Social Development which is the custodian of vulnerable people) was well thought-out.”

He said the reports shared by the MPs and Senators had enabled him to better appreciate “the peculiar needs of prisoners, women and men who form a substantial part of the population in our prisons.”

The Minister added: “This was an eye-opener. We should always bear in mind that we don’t talk only of females and males in our population. We should remember that there is the LGBTI community. As we provide services, we should remember that they are part of the nation. Like everybody else, they have rights.”

Pressed on what needs to be done going forward, Hon Moletsane was clear.

“We should now embark on a rigorous transformation of our legal framework. We must come up with new laws to cater for key populations. We need new policies. Parliamentarians should embark on that rigorous reform to cater also for the needs of special groups within our institutions.”

Hon Moletsane expressed optimism that the Social Cluster and Parliamentary Committee on HIV and AIDS would help the Government of Lesotho to develop laws and policies “to take care of everybody.”

He said as a follow up, he would invite all relevant stakeholders to his Ministry “so that we embark on a review of any piece of legislation that needs to be repealed or amended so that we realise the rights of every citizen, especially prison inmates.”

Asked what had struck him the most from the reports shared by the lawmakers, Hon Molestane first took a deep breath before saying: “The realities in our communities and the level of our ignorance as a society. We know gay people exist, but we have never taken time to understand their special situation and their special needs.”

He said what the lawmakers reported following their interactions with different members of the community including key populations warranted the full attention of the Executive and Parliament.

“We need to respond to these challenges, whether through the national budget or legal reforms. We can no longer ignore or pretend that these (key populations) do not exist. We have to act,” he said.

BITING THE BULLET: From left: Hon. Mahlompho Mokaeane, Deputy Minister of Gender and Sports; Hon. Manthabiseng Phohleli, Deputy Minister of Health; Minister of Justice, Human Rights and Correctional Services, Hon Mokhele Moletsane; and Hon. Nkaku Kabi, Minister of Health react to reports by MPs and Senators on the plight of key populations in Lesotho. Photo: Moses Magadza

He commended the MPs and Senators for throwing light on matters that for long had been skirted.

“They are determined to work and enlighten us. When it is done at this high level of governance, it says a lot. Parliament is taking its mandate seriously.”

He said Lesotho was going through exciting times towards universal access to SRHR, HIV and AIDS services. He called for all hands on board.

“Let us join hands and look into the future so that we can celebrate being part of that change. As an individual and as an official of government, I am determined … to be part of those willing to bring about change,” he said.

Hon Moletsane said he was keenly alive to the challenges that lay ahead.

“It is not going to be easy. We are a religious community but I am going to add my voice to numerous voices that are already advocating for change.”

He said he would instruct officials in his Ministry to engage all stakeholders to be part of the envisaged transformation. He commended the SADC PF for building the capacity of MPs to advocate for universal access to SRHR, HIV and AIDS services and said enlightened lawmakers can make a huge difference.

“The importance of MPs cannot be over-emphasized. If MPs have a better appreciation of the needs of special populations, it would be very easy for us to work with them to respond to these challenges. People look up to us as leaders to wisely legislate to empower them.”

Other Ministers who attended the discussion are: Hon. Matebatso Doti, Minister of Social Development; Hon. Mokhele Moletsane, Minister of Justice and Correctional Service; Hon. Nkaku Kabi, Minister of Health
Hon. Mahlompho Mokaeane, Deputy Minister of Gender and Sports; Hon. Maphoka Motoboli, Deputy Minister of Education, and Hon. Manthabiseng Phohleli, Deputy Minister of Health.

Talking Notes for the Presentation of the Joint Report of the GEWAYD, TIFI Committees and RWPC Hon. Mfanawemakhosi J Dlamini

01 Dez. 2017

Motions

ARRIVAL: SADC PF President Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos who is also the Speaker of the National Assembly of Angola arrives at NIPAM in Windhoek for the start of the 42nd Plenary Assembly Session with SADC PF Secretary General, Dr Esau Chiviya and Clerks and Table in tow.

SADC PF Plenary ups momentum

12 Dez. 2017

News & Events

Staff Writer

The 42^nd Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC PF ended in the Namibian capital on December 3 2017 with delegates focusing on consolidating issues that started at the 41^st plenary assembly session in Seychelles which ushered in a new leadership within the regional deliberative body.

Among the main issues deliberated and agreed upon was the issue of transformation of the SADC PF into a SADC Regional Parliament.

When plenary began, SADC PF President Fernando da Piedade Dias dos Santos who is also the Speaker of the National Assembly of Angola, called for concerted efforts to transform the Forum into a regional legislative body in keeping with its founding objectives.

Mr. Sheuneni Kurasha, the Parliamentary Business Focal Person at SADC PF, said many MPs and National Parliaments were now supportive of the envisaged transformation.

"There is consensus among SADC Member Parliaments that there is need for a Regional Parliament. The SADC Treaty places obligation on Member States to ratify SADC decisions for them to take effect," Kurasha said in an interview.

In almost all SADC Member States, ratification SADC and other decisions is the responsibility of Parliament. The absence of a Regional Parliament in Southern Africa means that there is no legislative body that facilitates speedy ratification of SADC decisions by National Parliaments.

"The SADC PF tries to assume that role but within the context and confines of a deliberative body which is not legislative. Accordingly, the just ended plenary resolved to accelerate engagement with SADC Heads of State and Government and other stakeholders on the need for a SADC Regional Parliament," he added.

The SADC Region remains the only one of the Regional Economic Communities (RECs) of Africa without a regional legislative assembly.

The plenary welcomed progress made toward the development of a SADC Model Law on Elections under the SADC PF's Standing Committee of Democratization, Governance and Human Rights. Expectations are that the Model Law would facilitate the domestication of electoral instruments.

In the area of gender, the plenary agreed to focus on gender-responsive budgeting, which is the main-streaming of gender issues across the budget development process to ensure that issues that affect men and women, but in particular women for historical reasons, are addressed through the budget via allocation of resources.

In the same vein, the plenary highlighted the importance of the participation of women in elections, politics and decision-making to ensure that gender equality as it relates to increased representation, participation, and empowerment of women is realised given, that women constitute the majority in many countries.

VOCAL: ZIMBABWEAN LAWMAKER MONICA MUTSVANGWA (STANDING) MAKES A POINT DURING THE PLENARY ASSEMBLY SESSION OF SADC PF.Delegates were briefed on major developments in different countries. For instance, the Speaker of the Parliament of Zimbabwe, Advocate Jacob Mudenda, updated the plenary on the situation in Zimbabwe following recent events which led to the resignation of former President Robert Mugabe and the subsequent inauguration of the new President, Emerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa. The plenary wished Zimbabwe well and expressed optimism that the fortunes of ordinary Zimbabweans would improve.

From Lesotho's Speaker of the National Assembly Sephiri Enoch Motanyane, the plenary received an update regarding what has been an ongoing political crisis in that country which has prompted SADC to intervene through a commission previously and more recently, a peace-keeping mission.

In recent years, each time Lesotho went into a general election, it has been forced to form a coalition government because none of the parties has been able to garner adequate numbers to be able to form a government on its own. Those coalition governments have been fractious, leading to their collapse and snap elections being called. Over the past five years, three elections have been called for in Lesotho.

Motanyane explained that there had been notable progress in Lesotho in terms of implementation of reforms recommended by SADC PF, the African Union, the Commonwealth Observer Mission and others after the last elections which were held in May 2017, in which SADC PF participated as an observer.

The plenary welcomed the good tidings of progress in Lesotho and encouraged the new government and stakeholders to continue implementing reforms to ensure that the country returns to normalcy. Recommendations made include the need to regulate political floor-crossing, which has triggered instability when it has led to imbalance in terms of numbers that political parties are required to remain in government.

Angolan Speaker dos Santos briefed the plenary on the last election which took place in Angola on August 23 2017 which SADC PF unfortunately did not observe. SADC regulations stipulate that in order for an election observation mission to be deployed, there is need for a quorum of seven Member States. Only four SADC Member States expressed willingness to send observers to Angola. Since this did not make a quorum, the Forum could not send observes.

Delegates stressed the need for SADC PF to observe all elections in SADC Member States. They argued that this was in line with the oversight mandate of Parliaments.

The plenary noted that Angolan elections were conducted peacefully and ushered in a new President, João Lourenço, a former member of the SADC PF.

Election observation does not seem to be getting the attention of cooperating partners, yet in the eyes of SADC MPs; it remains an important issue as it constitutes an important aspect of democracy.

Noting that the of election observers has a restraining effect, Kurasha said the presence of observers during an election tends to boost the confidence of citizens and minimize election-related conflicts.

"This is because observers have a mandate to assess the extent to which member states adhere to the various codes of conduct that obtain in member parliaments. Election observation missions provide an opportunity for independent witnesses to elections. To that extent, they guarantee integrity of electoral processes."

The plenary resolved that Parliaments that are ready and able must participate in observer missions. However, delegates highlighted the need for all SADC Member Parliaments to participate saying when more Parliaments participate, it becomes cheaper and lends more legitimacy to elections.

Typically, SADC PF observer missions include male and female Parliamentarians from governing and opposition parties, which guarantees plurality.

Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania, Job Ndugai, attended the plenary with MPs from his country to a rousing welcome. It was the first time in nearly four years that a Speaker of the National Assembly of Tanzania attended the plenary.

Tanzania is not only a founder member of the SADC PF, but the country has been very active in the Forum. In brief remarks, Ndugai pledged his National Assembly's unwavering support to the work of SADC PF and the regional integration agenda.

An MP from the United Republic Tanzania, Ally Ally Sally moved one of the motions tabled and adopted during the plenary. The motion called for concerted efforts to ensure women's more active participation and representation as well as empowerment in politics and decision making positions.

Debating of motions tabled during the plenary was so passionate and lengthy that some motions were deferred to the next plenary assembly session which will be held in June 2018 in Angola.

Kurasha said the fact that some motions could not be dealt with was proof of the seriousness with which MPs generally deal with issues brought to plenary.

Among the highlights of the just ended plenary assembly session was the announcement that SADC PF had finally procured an official residence for its Secretary General, Dr Esau Chiviya, in keeping with standard practice and procedures of organizations like SADC PF.

The plenary drew approximately 110 delegates who included Speakers of National Assemblies, Deputy Speakers, MPs and staff of national parliaments from 13 of the 14 SADC PF Member Parliaments.

TETE-A-TETE: Speaker of the National Assembly of Namibia , Professor Peter Katjavivi chats with a fellow delegate during the 42nd Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC PF in Windhoek last week.The Democratic Republic of Congo was absent with apology. Kurasha expressed gratitude to the Government and the people of the Republic of Namibia, the National Assembly of Namibia as represented by the Speaker Prof Peter Katjavivi and his staff for supporting the plenary.

Hon. Boygah Deveena, Seconding the Motion on the Adoption of the Joint GEWAYD, TIFI Committees and RWPC Report

01 Dez. 2017

Motions

ANTI-SLAVE TRADE: South African MP Dr Santosh Vinita Kalyan.

“BARBARIC!” - Say SADC MPs as they slam alleged Libya slave trade

05 Dez. 2017

News & Events

Staff Writer

Members of Parliament from the SADC Region attending the just ended 42 ^nd Plenary Assembly Session of the SADC Parliamentary Forum in Windhoek, Namibia have unanimously adopted a motion strongly condemning the reported slave trade of asylum seekers and migrants in Libya.

A July 2017 video clip that went viral showing an auctioneer apparently auctioning off migrants at USD400 apiece has incensed the region's lawmakers, prompting them to take a stand.

South African MP Dr Santosh Vinita Kalyan moved a motion through which Parliamentarians from 13 of the 14 SADC Member States demanded decisive action from the African Union and other regional economic communities to bring the perpetrators "of such heinous crimes" inside and outside Libya to justice.

Kalyan described as "disgraceful" reports of African asylum seekers and migrants being sold into slavery in Libya as they try to reach European shores. She enjoined the SADC PF Plenary "to strongly deplore any form of modern day slavery and human trafficking, particularly of women and girls".

Findings by the United Nations (UN) High Commissioner for Human Rights ascribe slavery in transit countries such as Libya to the European Union's efforts to curb migration and tighten borders, without providing alternative safe and legal paths for migrants and refugees.

Kalyan condemned the emergence of what she described as modern-day slavery in which migrants fleeing corruption, oppression and poverty were trying to reach Europe via Libya, only to fall into the clutches of smugglers and being subjected to heinous abuses. Reports say the smugglers extort a large amount of money from the illegal migrants in order to get them across the Mediterranean Sea. Conservative estimates put the number of migrants that have drowned while attempting to cross the treacherous sea at 3000.

Kalyan said Libyan coast guards were reportedly arresting the migrants and taking them to Libyan detention centers where many have been raped, beaten and tortured. Others were being reportedly set upon by smugglers and sold off as either work slaves or sex slaves.

"The EU is complicit in violating the human rights of those migrants and they turn their heads the other way when the coast guard returns them to Libya. Finding a solution is indeed complex. What is very, very sad that this is a brother upon brother crime," the tough-talking MP said.

Libya is party to the UN Supplementary Convention on the Abolition of Slavery, the Slave Trade, and Institutions and Practices Similar to Slavery of 1956. The largely lawless North African country has ratified the African Charter on Human and People's Rights of 1986 that expressly prohibits slavery.

Goal 8 of the Sustainable Development Goals requires the UN Member States to eradicate forced labour, end modern slavery and human trafficking and secure the prohibition and elimination of the worst forms of child labour, including recruitment and use of child soldiers, and by 2025 end child labour in all its forms.

The motion generated passionate debate and widespread support.

Mauritius MP Mahomed Osman Cassam Mahomed told the Plenary that the reported slave trade in Libya had been raised in the Mauritius Parliament where opposition and governing political parties strongly condemned it.

MP Ally Ally Saleh from the United Republic of Tanzania said it was "saddening" that slave trade had reared its ugly head in Africa, centuries after it was officially abolished. Noting that Zanzibar was a focal point on slave trade a few centuries ago, Ally Saleh blamed the United Nations and the "imperialistic world" for the reported ongoing slave trade in Libya.

"Libya has been a target of the United Nations and the imperialistic world for a long time. They first pushed Libya into being a failed state …Libya is a conduit for most African people seeking greener pastures in the north. It is very funny that now the western world is coming out with a marshal plan. I don't know if it will succeed because probably we are reaching a stage whereby not only Libya but some other people back this notion of slavery in another form," he said.

Dr Jessie Kabwila, an MP from Malawi who chairs the Regional Women's Parliamentary Caucus of SADC PF, called for a media strategy to amplify the SADC Region's indignation over the reported slave trade in Libya.

Swaziland's His Royal Highness Jomo Mfanawemakhosi Dhlamini, also an MP, said what was happening in Libya was tantamount to a vote of no confidence on Africa.

He said: "Have we not failed to do the right thing? Why should somebody subject themselves to that situation? The lack of opportunity, education and so on eventually leads to people subjecting themselves to this. I condemn the slave trade. Africa must look within. Africa must stop blaming others. Africa must be honest with itself. Have we done the right thing with all (resources) that we have? I don't see Europeans migrating to Africa and risking their lives. I don't see Americans, maybe Asians."

Dhlamini said the fact that people were being sold to go and dig was proof that the majority of the people who were being sold "have no particular skill, so they find themselves in that situation".

He added: "Please, let's once again organize ourselves. We have enough resources… Without proper education, there is no hope. Let us reenergize ourselves to invest in education because if people are unskilled and uneducated, they will always be ready to do anything."

Zimbabwe's Dr Samuel Mukanduri, MP, said: "This is a very sad story… Nowadays we sell goods on the market but in Libya, we hear stories that people instead of goods, human beings are being sold like goods. Like tomatoes! Why? It is because we have let the imperialists devastate our economies. People are going to Europe because they know that our resources have been looted in Africa and they want to go and benefit from their sweat."

He called for political systems that create economic opportunities that benefit people.

"We should not let people loot. Those people in positions should desist from corrupt activities because this will disadvantage the citizens of our countries."

Another MP from Swaziland, Sikhumbuzo Ndlovu said what was happening in Libya was symptomatic of retrogression.

"It looks like we are moving back centuries. This is a trade that used to happen many years ago and definitely it doesn't have a place in our world today. It deserves to be condemned in the strongest terms possible. Why would the world move back when we are supposed to be moving forward? It means there is something seriously wrong that we have to address," he opined.

He appealed to the African Union, the EU and the UN to come on board "so that this modern-day slavery is fought with everything at our disposal".

South Africa's Ahmed Shaik-Emam called on all MPs to support the motion and "condemn these barbaric acts of enslavement (and) call for action against the perpetrators of these heinous crimes."

Shaik-Emam slammed the UN and the AU for failing to deal with the challenges in Libya.

"Not long ago, Libya used to provide free housing, free healthcare and free education… but because of what the west has done in Libya, today we have a crisis. But having said that, it doesn't mean that if they have a challenge they must behave in the way that they are behaving and abuse innocent people and violate their human rights."

Namibia's MP Hon. Sophia Swartz called for a clear understanding of what has prompted the slave trade in Libya.

"Each country, what is going on in your country? If you are a political leader, see that people on the ground benefit," she said, adding that foreign direct investment must seek to empower local people.

"If we are not doing those things (our people) will run away looking for greener pastures and this will go on and on. As MPs, we have an oversight function and must ensure that investors who come enter into deals that benefit ordinary people as well."

MPs from Mozambique and Angola also supported the motion and called for urgent steps to halt the reported flagrant violation of the rights of vulnerable migrants.

SHAYANE HOAREAU A 13-YEAR-OLD SEYCHELLOIS CHILD, ADDRESSES MEMBERS OF THE NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF SEYCHELLES ON WORLD CHILDREN’S DAY (20 NOVEMBER, 2017) IN MAHE, SEYCHELLES. PHOTO: NATIONAL ASSEMBLY OF SEYCHELLES.

Girl Child addresses Seychelles National Assembly

20 Nov. 2017

Human and Social Development and Special Programmes

November 20 is Children's Day, is an international celebration intended to bring nations together to promote child welfare. For the first time in the history of the National Assembly of Seychelles, a 13-year-old Seychellois child addressed her lawmakers on World Children's day. In an impassioned address, the child, Shayane Hoareau, spoke about the challenges - including those related to Sexual Reproductive Health Rights - that children face growing up in the picturesque island country. These were her words, which have been slightly edited for clarity.

Mr. Speaker,

Honorable Members of the National Assembly and all Seychellois who are listening,

Good Day!

It is a great honor to be the representative for all Seychellois children and for addressing the National Assembly this morning.

My name is Miss Shayane Hoareau and I'm 13 years old.

On November 20, 1989, the United Nations drafted the Convention for the Rights of the Child. The Government Seychelles had signed this document on September 20, 1990.

This means that not one of us can say that we haven't heard of this document.

This document addresses what a child needs, even before they are born until they have reached the age of maturity - that is, 18 years of age here in Seychelles.

The Convention on the Rights of the Child has 54 articles and although I do not know all of them by heart, I believe that whatever is detailed is good for children.

It is also good for parents and is good for the community as well.

A number of things have been done in Seychelles so that our children can rejoice in those rights and help us to grow as responsible citizens.

They have the right to be born, the right to access healthcare, the right to live with their parents when they are separated, the right to go to school.

All of this has been possible thanks to the devotion of the Government of Seychelles towards this Convention.

For that, we say a huge thank you.

Before I go further please permit me, Honorable Members, to paint a portrait of the situation that children in Seychelles are living in today.

A 2015 study shows that 3 out of 5 children in the class of S1 through to S5 have been abused sexually. The majority of the time by a member of their own family.

The youngest was a three-month-old baby who died as a result of sexual abuse.

Here in Seychelles!

Children are involved in sexual intercourse from a very young age, and often with one or more partners.

The youngest to fall pregnant was aged 10. Ten years old!

However, the law does not allow a child to consent to sex before the age of 15. The law prevents access to contraceptives for such children. They have to wait until the age of 18.

How many more young mothers should there be before the law is revised?

In addition, children get access to alcohol easily.

However, the law states that you have to be 18 years old to get access to alcohol.

Where are we getting it from?

Cigarettes as well.

Drugs, let's not talk about it.

Before we even reach the age of maturity, at least 14% of children between the ages of 11 to 16 have tried some kind of substance.

In addition, children are being used to sell drugs.

Some have had to get into prostitution to be able to support the drugs lifestyles of their parents.

And let's not forget those that even in their mother's womb, some children have tried drugs and are born with the effects of drugs.

Even in the family, children grow up on their own.

Parents are busy. Parents work. Parents have separated. Children suffer.

The number of suicide attempts amongst children continues to increase.

Schools. We all know. Academic levels are coming down and continuing to go down.

Where is the problem?

To whom does this problem belong to?

This is the reason why we the children wanted to address with the National Assembly on this day.

Put yourself in the shoes of Dylan Rose, which was only 12 years old.

Instead of playing football, going to school, he lived on the streets, slept wherever he could find a spot. He ate what he could find until he lost his life.

Who would wish this on their children?

In fact, there is an article that addresses the protection of children just like Dylan.

Ladies and gentlemen, all that we see on the television have arrived at our door today.

Regardless of the dangers, of all this education and awareness, the attitudes of certain adults do not change!

Young children continue to be neglected, get abused and maltreated!

There are more suitable ways to raise and discipline children.

I would like to thank the National Council for Children, NCC, which has been engaged in educating adults on all of this.

If you, the adults, want us to become better, then you have to lead us by example.

There's a saying 'Children see, Children do!'

We feel that the finger is being pointed at us.

But my grandfather has always said that there are three fingers pointing back at you when you point the finger at others.

Everything that is happening is a reflection of our society.

As children, we do not condone violence.

We don't want violence among children, between children and their parents, between children and their teachers, stealing and deaths.

All of this is not good for us.

Mr. Speaker and all the Members of the National Assembly, all Seychellois who are listening, today, I am making history by being the first child to address the National Assembly of our country, Seychelles.

Article 3 of the Convention States:

In all decisions made, the best interests of children must be taken into consideration. We would like to be listened to, even if some of the things we say might not make much sense to you.

This reminds me of an incident that happened in America that I watched on the Internet.

The driver of a huge truck that miscalculated its path and was stuck under a bridge.

The road was blocked. There was a lot of panic. The engineers, mechanics, police, and many professionals came to try and find a solution. While they were discussing, a small boy came up with his bike.

He approached the person in charge to ask whether he could speak.

No one listened. Finally, a young man asked him what he needed.

That little boy asked if they had tried removing the air from the tyres.

Immediately, the man tried out his idea and was able to remove the truck out from under the bridge.

Mr. Speaker, honourable members, the truth comes out of the mouth of a child. We have ideas, a lot of ideas, and we can help resolve the problems that sometimes the adult themselves have created.

How many developments will be made without taking the child into account? Many housing estates, for example, don't have facilities for playing!

We need a place where we can run, sing and play all kinds of games if we like. Give us a chance to develop sports, cultural and traditional activities. It is our right to know our history and to keep our culture alive.

But if you do not show us, how are you supposed to protect our heritage tomorrow?

Mr. Speaker, we also have our dreams. We also have our vision for the future. Do not only see us as the source of the problems in Seychelles.

Instead, view us as the resource that can help to resolve these issues.

We are the key. We are the future. But remember, we are also the present. We are not just an expense. We are a good investment.

Continue to treat us with respect and dignity so that we can also grow up with those same values. If you wish us a good morning, we will also wish you a good morning.

Yes, we know that having rights also comes with responsibility. We have our part to play. Parents also have theirs. And all the leaders of this country also have a role to play. Don't just say that children have rights. Learn about these rights and see where you can help.

Support services that provide support to our children. Help those services to become stronger and effective so that they will prevent the bad people from taking advantage of us.

Think of the most vulnerable children - abandoned children, children who are poor and children who live with disabilities. Don't treat them like they are lesser, on the contrary help to create a better environment to help them develop their potential to the maximum possible.

Mr. Speaker, Members of the National Assembly, we depend on our adults to protect our interests. Already, by giving us a moment of your time, you, the Honorable Members have shown engagement towards us.

We promise to work hard at school so we can contribute to taking our country forward.

Thank you for listening to us despite the fact that you are busy with the budget. For once this assembly today has become the assembly for all children too.

We also thank everyone for listening.

Long live all children in Seychelles!

Long live our national assembly!

Final Communique of the Multi-Stakeholder Consultative Workshop on Sexual Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), HIV and AIDS held on the 13th and 14th October 2017, at Out of Africa Lodge, Otjiwarongo, Namibia

17 Ago. 2018

Communiques

The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Parliamentary Forum is implementing the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR), HIV and AIDS and Governance program through seven SADC member parliaments. Namibia only joined the initiative in October 2016. The SRHR, HIV and AIDS and Governance program aims to strengthen the capacity of SADC National Parliaments to advocate for, and influence responses to sexual and reproductive health and rights, HIV and AIDS and Governance challenges in the SADC region.

As part of the implementation of the program, the SADC Parliamentary Forum in collaboration with the National Assembly of Namibia convened a Multi-stakeholder Consultative Workshop on 13^thand 14^th October 2017 at Out of Africa Lodge in Otjiwarongo, Namibia. The workshop was attended by forty-six participants including Members of Parliament (MPs) and staff, representatives of government ministries, key populations and Civil Society Organization (CSOs) responsible for gender, education, health and youth. In attendance was also Honourable Petrina Haingura, the Chairperson of the Women Parliamentary Caucus of Namibia.

The workshop was aimed at strengthening the understanding of stakeholders and engaging participants regarding the implementation of the SRHR, HIV and AIDS and Governance program and clarifying the different roles they play and should play in its coordination.

SRHR, HIV and AIDS and Governance primarily relates to

(i) empowerment of women and girls (ii) safeguarding and protection of the health and sexual rights of women, girls and key populations

(iii) reduction in maternal and child morbidity and mortality

(iv) elimination of child marriages and (v) advocacy against Gender-Based Violence(GBV).

The need to prioritize SRHR, HIV and AIDS issues is underpinned by Namibia's HIV prevalence rate which is 17.2% (NHSSS, 2016) and this, unfortunately, includes a high HIV infection rate of 73% among young girls (15 to 19 years).

On the other hand, teenage pregnancy and unwanted pregnancies increased from 15% (2006/7) to 19% (2013) (NDHS, 2006/7; NDHS, 2013). Furthermore, child marriages which involve children living in traditional marriages or consensual unions are estimated at 3828 for girls and 1699 for boys.

There is an urgent need for the expansion of the provision of accessible adolescent and young people friendly SRHR services through innovative approaches. This should be complemented by expanded Comprehensive Sexuality Education (CSE) that involves the whole of society.

The youth, women and girls, men and boys, people with disabilities, key populations and marginalized groups should specifically be targeted for greater SRHR results. This will also result in decreased teenage pregnancies and new HIV infections the workshop noted.

The Government of the Republic of Namibia should be applauded for the domestic investment made which has come in handy in filling the financing gap created by the downscaling of external donor funds in combating HIV, TB and Malaria and this should be continued.

The multi-sectoral nature of SRHR, HIV and AIDS governance underscore the need for all stakeholders to ensure their meaningful participation and collaboration towards the realization of the project targets and intended impact. To this end, SADC PF is urged to ensure an inclusive and effective implementation of the SRHR, HIV and AIDS and Governance project.

The SRHR agenda needs to be advanced through harnessing the indispensable role and contribution of civil society and the media which results in greater public awareness, advocacy, accountability and inclusivity.

There is a need to leverage the representational, legislative and oversight role of Parliament in advancing the SRHR, HIV and AIDS agenda and in particular the role of the Women Parliamentary Caucus (WPC) and other relevant Parliamentary Standing Committees.

Noting the unique challenges that women and girls face in accessing and utilising SRHR services, the Workshop implored women Parliamentarians to provide political leadership and be champions of the SRHR agenda.

Notwithstanding the fact that Namibia commenced project implementation much later than the other SADC countries, stakeholders commended the accelerated rate at which the project is being implemented and further affirmed their commitment to the realisation of the project targets.

Participants expressed profound appreciation to the cooperating partners for the financial and technical support to the Project is receiving and called for its extension to allow Namibia amble time to mobilise domestic capacities and resources in order to ensure sustainability.

The SRHR, HIV and AIDS agenda should be pursued in conjunction with complementary objectives and targets as contained the Public Health Act 13 of 1995, NDP 5, HPP, regional, SADC frameworks, Agenda 2063, and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), paying particular attention to the ratification, domestication and oversight on the implementation it was emphasized.

Proposed an inter-religion and inter-cultural dialogue aimed at adopting and disseminating a harmonised approach to issues of SRHR, HIV and AIDS.

The communique was done and adopted on Saturday, 14^th October 2017 at Out of Africa Lodge in Otjiwarongo, Republic of Namibia.

SADC MPs hail child Marriage Model Law

07 Abr. 2016

Human and Social Development and Special Programmes

Staff Writer

Parliamentarians and other stakeholders from Southern Africa have welcomed the draft SADC Model Law on Eradicating Child Marriage and protecting those already in Marriage, saying it is a giant step forward in a region working to promote the rights of women and girls.

In separate interviews, they spoke about their pride in being part of a regional process that is developing a law with so much commonality that it can be easily adapted or adopted by SADC Member States as they confront the phenomenon that has been widely condemned.