Source document: https://docs-lawep.s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/1698139715376.pdf (South Africa)
Monday, 19 June 2023] No 86—2023] FIFTH SESSION, SIXTH PARLIAMENT PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA _____________________ ANNOUNCEMENTS, TABLINGS AND COMMITTEE REPORTS _____________________ MONDAY, 19 JUNE 2023 _____________________ TABLE OF CONTENTS ANNOUNCEMENTS National Assembly 1.

Referral to Committees of papers tabled .......................................................................... 2 TABLINGS National Assembly and National Council of Provinces 1.
Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs ......................................... 3 2.

Minister of International Relations and Cooperation ....................................................... 4 Speaker and Chairperson (PGIR Reports) ....................................................................... 4 3.

National Assembly 1.


Speaker ........................................................................................................................... 49 1 ANNOUNCEMENTS National Assembly The Speaker 1.
Referral to Committees of papers tabled (1) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities for consideration: (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Assessing the Effectiveness of the Gender Focal Persons/Points in South Africa: Government’s Response to Gender Findings and Recommendation 2023.
(2) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Police, Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services, Portfolio Committee on Health, Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour, Portfolio Committee on Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs, Portfolio Committee on Social Development, and Standing Committee on Finance for consideration: (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Missing pieces of the Puzzles-CGE’s assessment of the government 2023.
(3) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Portfolio Committee on Health, Portfolio Committee on Police, Portfolio Committee on Basic Education and Portfolio Committee on Social Development for consideration: (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Learner Pregnancy-Policy interplay: school dropout of adolescent girl during pregnancy and in the postpartum period in selected South African 2023.
(4) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation, Portfolio Committee on Police, Portfolio Committee on Defence and Military Veterans and Portfolio Committee on Higher Education, Science and Innovation, Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities and Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services for consideration: (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Activity Report on the Maputo Protocol 2023.
(5) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services and Standing Committee on Finance for consideration: 2 (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Sharing is Caring: Gender Responsive Planning Budgeting Experiences and Lessons from Africa – 2023.
(6) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration, Portfolio Committee on Water and Sanitation, Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour and Portfolio Committee on Small Business Development for consideration: (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Report on Gender Transformation: Public and Private Sectors 2022/23.
(7) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Portfolio Committee on Employment and Labour, Portfolio Committee on Public Service and Administration and Portfolio Committee on Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment: (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Progress Report: Transformation in the Public and Private Sectors 2022/2023.
(8) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Women, Youth and Persons with Disabilities, Portfolio Committee on Social Development, Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure, Portfolio Committee on Health and Portfolio Committee on Human Settlements for consideration: (a) Commission for Gender Equality: Final Report: Investigation into the State of Shelters 2022/2023.
(9) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Justice and Correctional Services: (a) Proclamation No R. 122, published in Government Gazette No 48693, dated 02 June 2023: Referral of matters to existing Special Investigating Unit: In respect of the affairs of the Umgeni Water Board, in terms of the Special Investigating Units and Special Tribunals Act, 1996 (Act No 74 of 1996).
(10) The following paper is referred to the Portfolio Committee on Transport for consideration and report: (a) Annual Performance Plan of the Road Accident Fund (RAF) for 2023/2024.

TABLINGS National Assembly and National Council of Provinces 1.

The Minister of Cooperative Governance and Traditional Affairs 3 (a) Annual Performance Plan of the National House of Traditional and Khoi-San Leaders for 2023/24.

2.
2.

The Minister of International Relations and Cooperation (a) Memorandum of Understanding between the Government of the Republic of South Africa and the Government of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan on Bilateral Consultations (signed: 25 August 2022), tabled in terms of section 231(3) of the Constitution, 1996.
(b) General Cooperation Agreement between the Government of the Republic of South Africa and the Government of the Republic of Mauritius (signed: 03 May 2023), tabled in terms of section 231(3) of the Constitution, 1996.

3.

The Speaker and the Chairperson (a) Monthly Financial Statements of Parliament – May 2023, tabled in terms of section 54(1) of the Financial Management of Parliament and Provincial Legislatures Act, 2009 (Act No 10 of 2009).
DELEGATION REPORTS ADOPTED BY THE PARLIAMENTARY GROUP ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS (PGIR) ON 05 MAY 2023.

(Continuing from 14 June 2023).

(b) Report of the 145th Inter-Parliamentary Union Assembly and related meetings, 11 – 15 October 2022 Kigali.
4 REPORT OF THE 145th INTER-PARLIAMENTARY UNION ASSEMBLY AND RELATED MEETINGS 11 – 15 October 2022 5 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The South African Parliament’s multi-party delegation led by the National Assembly (NA) Speaker, Ms. Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula, attended the 145th IPU Assembly.
This Assembly adopted by consensus a resolution on Ukraine entitled ‘Condemnation of the invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent annexation of territories, in defence of the territorial integrity of all States’ amongst others, calls for an immediate end to the Russian military occupation of sovereign Ukrainian territory, restoring its territorial integrity to its internationally recognised borders, extending to its territorial waters, and consequently the rule of international law”.
The resolution also reaffirms support for the ongoing work of the IPU Task Force for the peaceful resolution of the war in Ukraine.

During the Assembly, the IPU Task Force met high-level parliamentary delegations from both the Russian Federation and Ukraine separately.

South African Parliament’s delegate was part of the drafting team that consolidated input from the debate on the resolution before its adoption by the Assembly.
Other business The IPU Assembly also adopted a resolution on Parliamentary impetus to the local and regional development of countries with high levels of international migration and to stop all forms, including state-sponsored, of human trafficking and human rights abuses.

In the resolution, the IPU calls on the United Nations to make the topic of human trafficking, people smuggling and modern-day slavery a specific focus of the next UN General Assembly.
It also urges governments and parliaments to address the demand side of trafficking, including trafficking in women and girls for sexual exploitation.

South African Parliament submitted 12 amendments to the draft resolution, of the number 10 were included in the final resolution.
Also, adopted the Kigali Declaration Gender equality and gender-sensitive parliaments as drivers of change for a more resilient and peaceful world that recommends the implementation of electoral gender quotas to achieve parity in political decision-making; the law-making and gender-responsive budget that places vulnerable populations at the centre of parliamentary action, and ends gender- based discrimination and violence.

Madam Speaker delivered a speech on the issue.


Other issues under consideration at the Assembly included environmental degradation and its effects on the proliferation of terrorism; the impact of war and atrocity on civilian populations; and war and climate change as triggers of global food insecurity.
At the margins of the Assembly, the South African delegation had bilateral engagements with fellow parliamentarians from Serbia, Cote D'Ivoire, and South Sudan with a view of strengthening parliamentary relations including at the IPU assemblies.
OBSERVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The South African Parliament is invited to note the following key issues: • Increased South African Parliament’s contributions to the IPU: Presiding Officers and the Secretary to Parliament should note that Parliament’s contribution to the IPU will increase by 3% per annum from 2023 to 2025.
The Assembly endorsed the Executive Council’s recommendation to increase Members' contributions to fund the new IPU Strategy 2022 – 2 6 2026 which delivers on the Sustainable Development Goals.

South African Parliament contributed by proposing areas that the new IPU strategy should focus on.
• • Capacity-building opportunities for parliamentarians and staff: Presiding Officers and the Secretary to Parliament should note that African parliaments are encouraged to take advantage of the various opportunities available for capacity-building for both MPs and staff as well as engaging the IPU on the implementation of specialised activities in national parliaments.
IPU Presidency election in October 2023: Madam Speaker as the leader of the delegation and the NCOP Deputy Chairperson as the convenor of the IPU Focus Group should note that as per the geopolitical rotational practice, the African geopolitical group is eligible to occupy the IPU presidency position in 2023 for a non-renewable three-year term.

The election for the IPU Presidency will take place during the 147th Assembly possibly in Angola in 2023.
The Parliament of Angola offered to host the IPU in October 2023.

A decision on the Angolan proposals was deferred pending a site visit to Angola by the IPU Secretariat.
Between 1967 and 2014, the Africa group has held the IPU President position six times: (a) 2011–14 Abdelwahed Radi, Morocco; (b) 2008–11 Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab, Namibia; (c) 1994–97 Dr. Ahmed Fathi Sorour, Egypt; (d) 1988–91 Daouda Sow, Senegal; (e) 1983–85 (April) Izz El Din El Sayed, Sudan - His tenure was cut short by the dissolution of the Sudanese Parliament; and (f) 1967–68 Abderrahman Abdennebi, Tunisia (acting/interim).

Northern Africa has held the position more than other regions.
• Note the establishment of IPU Regional Offices: Madam Speaker and the NCOP Deputy Chairperson should note that the Governing Council endorsed the principle of opening IPU regional offices to facilitate outreach to Members and enhance Member's engagement in the work of the Organisation.

The Executive Committee received requests from Uruguay and Egypt to host the Regional Offices of the IPU.
During the debate on the matter, the African group member State raised the concern that Egypt will be hosting a regional office on behalf of the Arab countries, although Egypt is geographically in Africa.
• Referral of the IPU Guidelines for the Elimination of Sexism, Harassment, and Violence Against Women in Parliament to the Women Caucus and the Secretary to Parliament: The Parliamentary Group on International Relations jointly with the IPU Focus Group may consider referring the IPU Guidelines to the Women Caucus and the Secretary to Parliament for consideration with a view of enhancing mechanisms to counter abuse against women MPs and parliamentary officials in Parliament.
The 2021 IPU study uncovered a scourge of violence against female parliamentarians and the parliamentary staff in 50 African Parliaments including South Africa.

Also, to the Secretary to Parliament with a view of seeing measures put by other parliaments in addressing abuse against staff members.

3 7 1.
3 7 1.

INTRODUCTION The 145th IPU Assembly took place from 11-15 October in Kigali, Rwanda, in partnership with the Rwanda Parliament under the theme ‘Gender equality and gender-sensitive parliaments as drivers of change for a more resilient and peaceful world’.

Around 1000 delegates, of whom 600 were MPs, representing 120 countries.

Just over 35% of MPs were women and nearly 32% were young MPs (under 45 years old).
The debate on the theme provided a platform for delegates to deliberate, exchange views, and galvanise parliamentary action in this area.

South African Parliament was represented to this Assembly by: • National Assembly Speaker, Hon.

N. Mapisa-Nqakula, MP – Leader of the delegation.

• Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces and the Convener of the IPU Focus Group, Hon.

S. Lucas, MP.

• NA House Chairperson on International Relations, Hon.

M. Ntombela, MP.

• Hon.

Dr. A. Lotriet, MP.


• Hon.

D. Dlakude, MP.

• Hon.

F. Shivambu, MP.


The delegation was supported by Ms. N. Nojozi (Advisor to the Speaker); Ms. Z. Kula (Support to the Speaker); Dr. S.Mvulane (Office Manager: Office of the Deputy Chairperson: NCOP); Ms. Marjorie Brandt (Personal Secretary to NCOP Deputy Chairperson); Mr. D. Sithole (IRPD Division Manager); Ms. M. Monnakgotla (Content support to the delegation); Mr. S. Tembe (Content support to the delegation); Mr. M. Wolela (Media support) and Ms. S. Montsho (Media support).

2.
2.

THE ASSEMBLY AND MEETINGS OUTCOMES The 145th IPU Assembly was preceded by the following meetings: 2.1.

The SADC and Africa Geopolitical Group meetings The SADC and the Africa Geopolitical Group meetings took place on 10 October 2022 with the sole purpose of adopting a common position on some of the items on the agenda of the 145th Assembly.
Amongst others, the meetings deliberated on the following: • Emergency Item: During the SADC meeting, NA Speaker, Ms. Nosiviwe Mapisa-Nqakula proposed an emergency item titled ‘Transformation of the United Nations Security Council for the SADC group consideration.

It was aimed at accelerating the transformation discussion of the Council.
However, the item was not accepted as it did not meet the requirements as stipulated in the Assembly’s Rule 11.2 (a): A request for the inclusion of an emergency item must relate to a recent major the situation of international concern on which urgent action by the international community is required and on which it is appropriate for the IPU to express its opinion and mobilize a parliamentary response.

Such a request must receive a a two-thirds majority of the votes cast to be accepted.
4 8 • Establishment of IPU Regional Offices: The Executive Committee received requests from Uruguay and Egypt to host the Regional Offices of the IPU.

In that regard, the Secretary- General presented a conceptual framework for consideration by the Executive Committee.

The Executive Committee agreed in principle to establish these Regional Offices whose objectives would be to enhance member engagement, provide systematic outreach to Parliaments and provide support for the IPU Workplan among others.
However, challenges to do with hosting agreements, sustainability of the hosting agreements, and other legalities were also identified.

In this regard, the Executive Committee proposed a pilot project involving the Parliament of Uruguay.

• Future Meetings of the IPU: The March IPU Assembly will be held in Bahrain.

The Parliament of Angola offered to host the IPU in October 2023.

A decision on the Angolan proposals was deferred pending a site visit to Angola by the IPU Secretariat.

2.2.
2.2.

The 34th Session of the Forum of Women Parliamentarians The 34th Session of the Forum of Women Parliamentarians took place on 11 October 2022.

It brought together 191 participants, including 139 parliamentarians (128 women and 11 men) from 78 countries.
Amongst others, considered the following: • Contributions to the work of the 145th Assembly from a gender perspective: draft resolution - The parliamentary impetus for local and regional development of countries with high levels of international migration and to stopping all forms, including state-sponsored, of human trafficking and human rights abuses.
Participants recommended a human-rights-based and gender-sensitive approach to migration; addressing the root causes of the trafficking of women and girls, including sexual exploitation, and combating human trafficking with a focus on the rights and needs of survivors.
The Forum considered that legislative, law enforcement, and educational measures in the fight against human trafficking must combat the demand for exploitative goods and services; the trafficking of orphans; and the use of technology and online platforms as drivers of trafficking.
Dr. Lotriet, amongst others, noted that for many women and girls, migration is a way to fulfill their potential, support themselves and their families, and escape deeply entrenched gender inequalities, including sexual and gender-based violence as well as lack of access to resources.
In this regard, proposed the following amendment, which endorsed by the Forum and included in the final adopted resolution: ‘Expressing deep concern at the reports of grave abuses and violence committed against migrant women and girls, including gender-based violence, sexual violence, domestic and family violence, discrimination, abusive labour practices, exploitative conditions of work, and, all forms of forced labour and trafficking in persons’.
• Panel discussion on the theme Gender-sensitive parliaments: Parliaments free from sexism, harassment, and violence against women Participants called for action to combat discrimination, sexist culture, and all forms of sexist violence that still prevail in parliaments.
Among other measures, they recommended the following: training to prevent sexism and harassment in parliament, independent reporting, and complaint mechanisms, and the putting into place of confidential spaces where victims 5 9 can get information and support.

It is also crucial to apply sanctions when a complaint procedure reveals poor conduct.
The debate also highlighted the importance of collaborating with the media so that they may disseminate relevant information on the participation of women in politics and the violence they may face.

Hon.

Lucas, amongst others, noted that parliamentarians must mobilise and counter abusive acts.

Any action must be done with the full force of the law but also with increased public awareness campaigns about women’s rights and equality, and holding perpetrators accountable.
This requires the establishment of strong policies, structures, and mechanisms in parliaments, including in political parties, that can protect women MPs from physical and psychological attacks, including those perpetrated on social media.

Parliamentarians must review p immunity rules to ensure that they don’t afford MPs immunity from prosecution for sexual harassment and violence against women.
Parliamentarians must create a conducive mechanism to report and lodge complaints against all forms of violence in parliaments including in political parties with meaningful consequences for those found to have violated policies.

2.3.

Forum of Young Parliamentarians The Forum of Young Parliamentarians was held on 12 October 2022.

It brought together 125 participants, including 84 parliamentarians (26 young women and 58 young men) from 62 countries.
Amongst others: In advancing the implementation of the I Say Yes to Youth in Parliament!

the campaign, the young MPs shared experiences and good practices on how to engage youth in parliament through both formal and informal means.

The Rwandan practice of reserving two seats in parliament for one man and one woman elected through the national youth council was showcased.

Other examples to channel youth perspectives into parliamentary proceedings.
included creating youth parliaments On the General Debate of the Assembly on Gender equality and gender-sensitive parliaments as drivers of change for a more resilient and peaceful world.

Although much work remained to be done, participants mentioned innovations such as providing feeding rooms for young mothers, and reiterated young MPs spearheading efforts to combat sexism, harassment, and discrimination both in parliament and on social media.
They also affirmed that to be fully modern and to cater to the needs of all cohorts of society, parliaments needed to be fully inclusive.

This included women and youth, but also minorities, indigenous people, people with disabilities, LGBTQI+ people, and more.

The young MPs also voiced their opposition to the impacts of war and violence, which prevented young men and women from exercising their mandates.

3.

AN OVERVIEW OF THE 145th ASSEMBLY AND THE GOVERNING COUNCIL 3.1.
The Assembly The following were considered during the 145th Assembly: • General debate on the theme of the Assembly: The debate on the theme ‘Gender equality and gender-sensitive parliaments as drivers of change for a more resilient and peaceful world’ ended with the adoption of the Kigali Declaration.

The Declaration represents a 6 10 milestone in progress towards gender equality and gender-sensitive parliaments.
It encourages IPU Members to step up their efforts to promote gender equality in institutions and society.

It recommends that parliaments implement electoral gender quotas to achieve parity in political decision-making; ensure law-making and budgeting are gender-responsive; place vulnerable populations at the centre of parliamentary action, and end gender-based discrimination and violence.
During the debate on the theme, Madam Speaker Mapisa-Nqakula noted, among others, that a gender-sensitive Parliament, must go beyond women's representation, which only reflects numbers.

It is more about improving the lives of women, especially the poorest and the neediest.

Unless the many systemic barriers to women's participation at the apex of political leadership and decision-making are addressed, the status of women will not improve.
These barriers include disempowering legislation, patriarchal gender roles in society, conservative traditions, and religious fundamentalism that continue to reproduce undesirable stereotypes and inadequate support and recognition of women in individual households.
• Adoption of the emergency item: the 145th Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) adopted by consensus a resolution on Ukraine entitled ‘Condemnation of the invasion of Ukraine and the subsequent annexation of territories, in defence of the territorial integrity of all States’.
The resolution calls for ‘an immediate end to the Russian military occupation of sovereign Ukrainian territory, restoring its territorial integrity to its internationally recognised borders, extending to its territorial waters, and consequently the rule of international law’.

The resolution also reaffirms support for the ongoing work of the IPU Task Force for the peaceful resolution of the war in Ukraine.
During the Assembly, the IPU Task Force met high- level parliamentary delegations from both the Russian Federation and Ukraine separately.

South African Parliament’s delegate was part of the drafting team that consolidated input from the debate on the resolution before its adoption by the Assembly.

3.2.

The Governing Council The Governing Council considered and adopted several reports including the following: • Report on the work of the IPU Task Force on the peaceful resolution of the war in Ukraine.
Based on the report from the President of the Task Force, Dr. A.R.

Al Nuaimi, the Executive Committee agreed with the proposal of the Task Force to continue its work through individual consultations with parliamentarians from both sides in Jakarta and Kigali, and its commitment to discourage actions that might further enflame tensions in the region.

Members of the Executive Committee expressed their hope that parliamentarians from both sides could be brought together around the table.
They also encouraged the Task Force to continue its collaboration with other parties working to broker peace in the region.

• Future inter-parliamentary meetings: The 146th Assembly from 11 – 15 March 2023 in Manama, Bahrain.

The 147th Assembly is from 8 – 12 in Geneva, Switzerland but this venue is likely to change as Angola has made a presentation to the IPU to host this Assembly.

7 11 4.
7 11 4.

MEETINGS OF THE STANDING COMMITTEES The following is the Committees’ summarised business during the 145th Assembly: 4.1.

Standing Committee on Peace and International Security The Committee, amongst others, discussed the following items • Expert hearing on the theme Cyberattacks and cybercrimes: the new risks to global security: Participants heard from experts that the conflict in Ukraine has shown that cyberattacks can be sued to wage war.
Parliaments must work towards a ban on lethal autonomous weapons, prioritise the protection of all nuclear infrastructure from possible external cyberattacks, and prevent a new escalation in the global nuclear threat.

In this regard, Hon.


Dlakude, amongst others, noted that in recent years, new and emerging technologies have been used, not only to violate international norms and standards including the right to privacy, freedom of expression, and information but also as a means of undermining countries’ sovereignty.

South Africa has not been immune to these developments.

In 2021, we had the third-highest number of cybercrime victims worldwide.
The country is estimated to suffer 577 malware attacks an hour and experience a 100 % increase in mobile banking application fraud.

Effective protection against these attacks and threats can only be achieved through empowerment, cooperation, and education.

In this regard, as parliamentarians must through oversight: o Enhance the cybercrime investigative capabilities of our national law enforcement agencies.
o Encourage our governments to collaborate and cooperate with foreign States on the investigation and prosecution of cybercrimes.

Also, South Africa welcomes the positive steps of the United Nations towards a draft Cybercrime Treaty to counter the use of information and communication technologies for criminal purposes.
• Panel discussion on the theme ‘ the impact of war and atrocity on civilian populations: Participants heard from experts that conflicts of all kinds engender terrible consequences for civilians and women as well as children are often worst affected.

These effects are often hard to quantify and fluctuate greatly from conflict to conflict.

In extreme cases, civilians suffer serious breaches of international humanitarian law ranging from war crimes to crimes against humanity and even genocide.
In this regard, Hon.

Dkakude, among others, noted that the most effective way to protect civilians is to prevent the outbreak and the escalation of armed conflicts and settle them peacefully.

The preventative tool at the disposal of parliamentarians is to put in place a sound human rights framework.

Human rights violations are often the root causes of conflict and insecurity.

As such, action to protect these rights has inherent preventative power.
Human rights embody key values in our societies such as fairness, dignity, equality, and respect.

The human rights framework obliges MPs to identify and eliminate all forms of discrimination including structural inequalities between groups, which frequently lead to conflict.

Where conflicts cannot be prevented, MPs must use all platforms available to call on conflicting parties to comply with international humanitarian law and human rights.
To remind these parties that continued attacks on civilians and crucial infrastructure amount to war crimes.

8 12 4.2.

Standing Committee on Sustainable Development The Committee, amongst others, discussed the following items: • Debate on the theme of the next resolution entitled Parliamentary efforts in achieving negative carbon balances of forests: Participants heard from the experts that the temperatures and sea levels are rising.
Apart from reducing carbon emissions, afforestation is currently the only available and affordable means of winning the race against global warming.

Parliamentarians have to strengthen efforts to protect the rainforests through, amongst others, legislation.

The world needs policies that will sustain the forest cover as already mankind has lost 430 million hectares of arable land and is losing 10 to 20 million hectares of forest cover every year.

In this regard, Hon.


Lotriet, amongst others, noted that parliaments need to make sure that governments follow through with the COP 26 pledges of halting deforestation.

It is also critical for parliaments to safeguard financing for forests by integrating them into the post-COVID-19 recovery plans to build resilience and improve the livelihoods of forest-dependent groups.
Also, halting deforestation is more than slowing climate warming, is about protecting the livelihood of millions of people through adopting comprehensive legislation that will: o Strengthen national forest authorities and enhance the monitoring of illegal logging; o Ensure the preservation of indigenous knowledge - many local communities have sustainably managed forests for generations, using practices based on indigenous knowledge systems.

These practices have enabled them to provide for their livelihood.
• Panel discussion on the theme ‘Reconnecting local communities with a local sustainable inclusive economy to achieve the targets of SDGs: Participants heard that a local economy that connects with the local society increases the well-being of households and communities.

COVID-19 revealed that the local society is disconnected.

The local economy was unable to contribute to inclusive and sustainable economic growth and provide full and productive employment as well as decent work for all.
In this regard, Hon.

Lotriet, amongst others, noted that the pandemic deepened South African persistent challenges of inequality, unemployment, and poverty coupled with sluggish economic growth.

Local municipalities as engines to create jobs and stimulate local economic activities played a crucial role in keeping local businesses afloat under hard lockdown.
Despite all these efforts, the majority of municipalities continue to face a wide range of challenges when planning and promoting local economic development.

These include weak governance, non-compliance with financial management, weak internal control, and performance challenges coupled with technical capacity constraints.
The newly adopted legislative measures coupled with other initiatives will go a long way in building the resilience of municipalities so that they can eradicate the triple challenge of poverty, unemployment, and inequality.

legislation, poor quality 4.3.


Standing Committee on Democracy and Human Rights • The Committee considered proposed amendments and endorsed the draft resolution titled parliamentary impetus for local and regional development of countries with high levels of international migration and to stopping all forms, including state-sponsored, of human trafficking and human rights abuses.
The resolution, among others, calls upon all and governments coordinated action, including enacting and enforcing legislation criminalizing trafficking and smuggling; raising awareness through media, including social media; and strengthening parliaments meaningful holistic take and to 9 13 national law enforcement capabilities, to dismantle global smuggling and trafficking organisations and networks.

Amendments to the draft resolution were submitted by 18 Member States including South Africa.
South Africa submitted 12 amendments, of the number 10 (full and amended versions) were included in the final resolution adopted by the Assembly and two were rejected.
The South African Parliament’s written proposals enhance and strengthen the draft resolution by proposing the inclusion of, amongst others, the: o Protection of human rights of all migrants, particularly unaccompanied migrant children within its territory and subject to its jurisdiction, without discrimination of any kind, including in particular based on national origin.
Importance of protecting and assisting victims of trafficking as a way of encouraging them to testify against traffickers and to ensure their rights are respected throughout criminal justice procedures.
o Referral of the resolution: The Parliamentary Group on International Relations jointly with the IPU Focus Group may consider referring the adopted resolution to the Portfolio Committees on Home Affairs and Justice and Constitutional Development and the Select Committee on Security and Justice for noting and consideration.

At the end of the debate on the draft resolution, Hon.

Lucas raised a point of order to emphasise the importance of respect and restraint.

Hon.
Hon.

Lucas called on MPs to respect each others’ viewpoints during the debates even if they do not agree with the viewpoint being raised.

Hon.

Lucas further emphasised the issue of principle.

That in the future, if the Committee has to mention countries in the resolution in distress or challenged, let the members mention all of them or mention none.

It is wrong to be biased toward a particular country whilst ignoring countries that are in the same position.
It should be noted that the adopted resolution is biased toward Ukraine and the inclusion of countries in the same situation (i.e., Palestine) was rejected.

• Debate on the theme of the next resolution to be debated during the 146th Assembly and resolution adopted during the 147th Assembly will be around the role of parliaments in preventing orphanage trafficking.

4.4.
Standing Committee on United Nations Affairs The Committee, amongst others, discussed the following items: • The UN response to growing hunger and famine Participants heard from the representatives of the World Food Programme (WFP) and the Food and Agriculture Organisation (FAO) that the two Organisations are faced with considerable challenges in delivering their humanitarian mandates including limited budgets, humanitarian access constraints, increased security incidents on its employees, fluctuating commodity prices, supply chains, and insufficient operational capacity.
Also, heard about the worsening hunger ad starvation around the world due to growing conflict, climate change, and the economic consequences of the COVID- 19 pandemic.

The conflict in Ukraine has added to this dramatic outlook.

10 14 In this regard, Hon.

Ntombela, amongst others, noted that the support provided to these two Organisations should go beyond donations but also extend to breaking the vicious cycle between armed conflicts and hunger.
To end hunger and famine, parliaments have to pursue all possible parliamentary avenues to prevent and resolve armed conflicts.

Currently, the world is witnessing the devastating impacts of armed conflicts on livelihoods – from disrupting food systems to mass displacements of people, and triggering food insecurity.

Also, urged parliaments jointly with their governments to do everything to ensure the protection of the employees of the two UN Organisations.
The World Food Programme highlighted the increased security incidents among its employees as one of the unprecedented challenges it faced in delivering assistance.

• The UN field presence in support of national development: The case of Rwanda: Participants heard that the UN system has been a fundamental partner in the reconstruction of Rwanda since the Genocide in 1994.

Since 2008, they have been delivering as one: ‘One UN’.
This means one leader – the UN Resident Coordinator; one budget; one programme – the five-year Development Assistance Plan (UNDAP II); and one voice.

‘One UN’ capitalises on the strengths and comparative advantages of the different UN agencies in the UN system and calls for coordinated endeavors for achieving the 17 Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to Transform Our World that was set out in Agenda 2030.

5.
5.

BILATERAL ENGAGEMENTS The delegation had bilateral engagements with fellow parliamentarians from Serbia, Cote D'Ivoire, and South Sudan with a view of strengthening parliamentary relations including at the IPU assemblies.

6.
6.

OBSERVATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS The South African Parliament is invited to note the following key issues: • Increased South African Parliament’s contributions to the IPU: Presiding Officers and the Secretary to Parliament should note that Parliament’s contribution to the IPU will increase by 3% per annum from 2023 to 2025.
The Assembly endorsed the Executive Council’s recommendation to increase Members' contributions to fund the new IPU Strategy 2022 – 2026 which delivers on the Sustainable Development Goals.

South African Parliament contributed by proposing areas that the new IPU strategy should focus on.
• • Capacity-building opportunities for parliamentarians and staff: Presiding Officers and the Secretary to Parliament should note that African parliaments are encouraged to take advantage of the various opportunities available for capacity-building for both MPs and staff as well as engaging the IPU on the implementation of specialised activities in national parliaments.
IPU Presidency election in October 2023: Madam Speaker as the leader of the delegation and the NCOP Deputy Chairperson as the convenor of the IPU Focus Group should note that as per the geopolitical rotational practice, the African geopolitical group is eligible to occupy the IPU presidency position in 2023 for a non-renewable three-year term.

The election for the IPU Presidency will take place during the 147th Assembly possibly in Angola in 2023.
The Parliament of Angola offered to host the IPU in October 2023.

A decision on the Angolan proposals was deferred pending a site visit to Angola by the IPU Secretariat.
11 15 Between 1967 and 2014, the Africa group has held the IPU President position six times: (a) 2011–14 Abdelwahed Radi, Morocco; (b) 2008–11 Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab, Namibia; (c) 1994–97 Dr. Ahmed Fathi Sorour, Egypt; (d) 1988–91 Daouda Sow, Senegal; (e) 1983–85 (April) Izz El Din El Sayed, Sudan - His tenure was cut short by the dissolution of the Sudanese Parliament; and (f) 1967–68 Abderrahman Abdennebi, Tunisia (acting/interim).

Northern Africa has held the position more than other regions.
• Note the establishment of IPU Regional Offices: Madam Speaker and the NCOP Deputy Chairperson should note that the Governing Council endorsed the principle of opening IPU regional offices to facilitate outreach to Members and enhance Member's engagement in the work of the Organisation.

The Executive Committee received requests from Uruguay and Egypt to host the Regional Offices of the IPU.
During the debate on the matter, the African group member State raised the concern that Egypt will be hosting a regional office on behalf of the Arab countries, although Egypt is geographically in Africa.
• Referral of the IPU Guidelines for the Elimination of Sexism, Harassment, and Violence Against Women in Parliament to the Women Caucus and the Secretary to Parliament: The Parliamentary Group on International Relations jointly with the IPU Focus Group may consider referring the IPU Guidelines to the Women Caucus and the Secretary to Parliament for consideration with a view of enhancing mechanisms to counter abuse against women MPs and parliamentary officials in Parliament.
The 2021 IPU study uncovered a scourge of violence against female parliamentarians and the parliamentary staff in 50 African Parliaments including South Africa.

Also, to the Secretary to Parliament with a view of seeing measures put by other parliaments in addressing abuse against staff members.
END 12 16 (c) Report of the meeting between Ms SE Lucas, the Deputy Chairperson of the National Council of Provinces and Mr Tang Changan, the Actin Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, 19 October 2022.
17 CCcc REPORT OF THE MEETING BETWEEN MS SE LUCAS, MP - THE DEPUTY CHAIRPERSON OF THE NCOP AND MR TANG CHANGAN – THE ACTING CONSUL GENERAL OF THE PEOPLE’S REPUBLIC OF CHINA IN CAPE TOWN HELD AT THE CHINESE CONSULATE ON WEDNESDAY, 19 OCTOBER 2022 1 18 1.Purpose of the Report To report on the meeting between Ms SE Lucas, MP - the Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP and Mr Tang Changan – the Acting Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Cape Town held at the Chinese Consulate on Wednesday, 19 October 2022.
1.

Background The Chinese Consulate in Cape Town initiated the meeting.

2.

Purpose of the meeting The purpose of the meeting was to explore ways to strengthen relations at the parliament to parliament level.

In attendance from the South African side: Ms SE Lucas, MP – the Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP; Mr Mohammed Dangor, MP;- the former Ambassador of the RSA in Saudi Arabia; Dr SC Mvulane – Manager: Office of the Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP.
Mr Z Cawe, International Relations Officer: Bilaterals supported the meeting.

In attendance from the Consulate of the People’s Republic of China in Cape Town side: Mr Tang Changan – Acting Consul General, Mr Qin Yong.

3.

Meeting discussion In his remarks, Mr Changan informed the Deputy Chairperson that he arrived in Cape Town in November 2021.

He is the Acting Consul General because the Consul General left in July 2022.
Before coming to the RSA, he worked in Kenya for four years and has warm emotions about Africa.

2 19 He expressed appreciation regarding the cordial bilateral relations between the RSA and the People’s Republic of China (PRC).

He mentioned the Communist Party of China’s Congress that started two days ago.

The Congress will adopt a 5 year Plan to take the People’s Republic of China forward with the Economic Development.
He also noted the upcoming 56th ANC Elective Conference in December 2022 and conveyed the wishes of the PRC and Chinese Communist Party for a successful conference.

He look forward to 2023 with high ranking visits between the leadership of the two countries and that the newly appointed Consul General will pay a courtesy call on Deputy Chairperson.
The Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, Ms Lucas, MP mentioned that it was her first visit to the Chinese Consulate in Cape Town and mentioned a virtual meeting she had with the Vice Chairperson of the Chinese People’s Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC), H.E Mr Bateer held on Monday, 11 April 2022.

She also conveyed greetings of the Deputy Speaker of the NA, Mr L Tsenoli, MP who is recuperating at home after a long illness.
She commended the existing party to party relations between the ANC and the Communist Party of China especially in her Northern Cape Province.

She also expressed appreciation to the existing people to people relations and the scale of cooperation at the political level between the leaders of the two countries as BRICS members.
During the recent Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Conference held in Spain, the Speaker of National Assembly, Ms Mapisa-Nqakula, MP met her Chinese counterpart at the sidelines of the Conference.

In his input, Mr Dangor, MP urged the Acting Consul General to meet with the business people of the Northern Cape because the area is so vast and has great potential for green energy.
The Acting Consul General further thanked the South African government on their stance on Taiwan issue by supporting One China Policy.

However, expressed concern with the United States of America’s policy which supports Taiwan.

He urged Parliament to engage other MPs and political parties on this issue of Taiwan because Taiwanese have been lobbying MPs especially 3 20 those from the opposition parties to attend events hosted by the Taiwanese embassy such as Taiwanese National Day celebrations, etc.
In her response, the Deputy Chairperson pointed out to the acting Consul General that the South African Government is a democratic government and cannot enforce on opposition parties not to attend events organized by Taiwanese Embassy.

However, made an undertaking to ask Mr Dangor, MP to propose a debate on One China Policy.

The Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, made an undertaking to meet with the Consul General when he/she is appointed.

5.
General outcomes of the meeting The meeting further deliberated and agreed as follows: 1) A courtesy call on Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP, Ms SE Lucas, MP by new Consul General will be arranged as soon as he /she is appointed; 2) Enhance bilateral relations at parliament to parliament level and other government levels especially after the Covid 19 pandemic; 3) Encourage Chinese business people to invest more in the communities and participate in various projects that are mutually beneficial to both sides e.g.
establishment of sister cities collaboration as a short cut in achieving such goals; 4) A concern regarding the safety of Chinese business people with the recent reports of abduction of not only Chinese business people was raised.

However, most of these crimes have been resolved without a loss of life; 5) The Deputy Chairperson of the NCOP undertook to ask the Minister of Police, Mr Bheki Cele, MP to invite the Chinese Embassy/Consulate officials to Imbizos that are arranged to address issues of crime.
Maybe, the Chinese Embassy officials could bring to Minister Cele’s attention the concerns of the Chinese Community living in the RSA.

6) The meeting was a success.

4 21 6.

Recommendations and/or Action by Parliament None 5 22 (d) Report of the meeting between H.E Mr Brahim Ghali, the President of the Sahrawi Democratic Republic (SADR) and Mr Supra Mahumapelo, the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations, 20 October 2022.
23 CCcc REPORT OF THE MEETING BETWEEN H.E MR BRAHIM GHALI, - THE PRESIDENT OF THE SAHRAWI DEMOCRATIC REPUBLIC (SADR) AND MR SUPRA MAHUMAPELO, MP- THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE PORTFOLIO COMMITTEE ON INTERNATIONAL RELATIONS AND COOPERATION HELD IN PARLIAMENT ON THURSDAY, 20 OCTOBER 2022 1 24 1.
Purpose of the Report To report on the Meeting between H.E Mr Brahim Ghali, - the President of the Sahrawi Democratic Republic (SADR) and Mr Supra Mahumapelo, MP- the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation held in Parliament on Thursday, 20 October 2022.

2.

Background The Sahrawi Democratic Republic (SADR) Embassy in Pretoria through the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) initiated the meeting.

3.
3.

Purpose of the meeting The President of the Sahrawi Democratic Republic (SADR), H.E Mr Brahim Ghali and delegation were on a working visit to the RSA at the invitation of the President of the Republic, Mr CM Ramaphosa.

The working visit reaffirmed the RSA continued support and solidarity with people of the SADR in their struggle for self-determination.
The purpose of the meeting was to brief Mr Mahumapelo, MP -the Chair of the PC on International Relations and Cooperation and Committee members on recent developments in the SADR.

In attendance from the South African side: Mr S Mahumapelo, MP - the Chair of the PC on International Relations and Cooperation; Ambassador Billy Masetla – Ambassador the RSA in SADR; Mr B Nkosi, MP and Mr M Dangor, MP (NCOP) and former Ambassador of the RSA in Saudi Arabia.
Mr Z Cawe, International Relations Officer: Bilaterals supported the meeting.

In attendance from the from SADR side: H.E Mr Brahim Ghali, the President of SADR; H.E Mohamed Salem Ould Salek, Minister of Foreign Affairs; H.E Mrs Fatima Mehdi Hassam, Minister of Cooperation; H.E Mrs Suelma Hay Enhamed, Minister Social Affairs; Mr Sidi Mohamed, Director Genral of Intelligence; Mr Bah Cheik Mohamed, Army Chief of Staff; Mr Abdati Breca Brahim, Special Adviser to the President.

2 25 4.
2 25 4.

Meeting discussion In his remarks, Mr Mahumapelo, MP the Chairperson of the PC on IR and Cooperation welcome the delegation to Parliament and tendered apologies from members of the Committee who were unable to join the meeting namely Mr Mpanza, MP; Ms Swart, MP and Mr Nqola, MP.

He thanked the Dirco for facilitating the briefing meeting and for making the delegation feel at home.
In his briefing, H.E Mr Brahim Ghali, - the President of the Sahrawi Democratic Republic (SADR) thanked the Chairperson for the warm welcome and expressed appreciation for the historic meeting.

He informed the meeting of his visit to the Robben Island in the morning where Mr Mandela and his comrades were incarcerated.

He commended Mandela and his comrades for their resilience.

They suffered but survived and conquered.


President Ghali pointed out that SADR were initially colonized by Spain which left in early 70s.

Instead of Saharawi, people enjoying their freedom were colonized by their neighbors Morocco.

Currently, SADR is at war facing the worst systematic repression like the RSA during Apartheid times.

The Moroccan jails full of Sahrawi prisoners who are serving life sentences for fighting for their freedom.
He further highlighted that the 31 October marks the 47 Years of Moroccan occupation meaning 47 Years of struggle against colonialism.

However, he assured the meeting that the Polisio Front would continue the struggle for the freedom, national sovereignty and dignity of the people of the Western Sahara.

He thanked the RSA for support and unwavering solidarity to the Polisio Front and the people of Sahrawi.
The delegation felt honoured to meet the Committee and conveyed greetings from the people of the SADR.

In conclusion, President Ghali indicated that the visit marked the new start and laying the foundation for RSA – SADR Joint Committee to intensify cooperation at parliament-to-parliament level.

He conveyed best wishes to the people of the RSA and expressed his confidence to the RSA as a strong power in the continent of Africa that has defeated Apartheid.
3 26 Mr Mahumapelo, MP – the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation pointed out that the government of the RSA made a conscious political choice to stand with the people of Western Sahara and the Polisio Front in their struggle to repeal continuous colonization so that they could defeat the illegal occupation.

He reminded President Ghali and delegation that ANC in all its conferences had taken resolutions to openly demonstrate its support.
On 15 September 2004, the government of the RSA took a decision to recognise the SADR because RSA government believe the insistence by SADR on calling for referendum on self- determination is supported by the government of the RSA.

The RSA have called for several times for the reform of the United Nations Security Council to ensure enforcement of the Resolution 1415 on Western Sahara and stressed that the Western Imperialist were using Morocco as a tool.
He emphasized that the RSA will not allow that and will use the African Union (AU) and other multilateral forums including bilateral meetings with other countries to plead for support of the struggle for self–determination of the people of Western Sahara.

He singled out Spain and the USA as most critical countries on Resolution 1415 on Western Sahara issue and urged that they should be consistently engaged.
In conclusion, Mr Mahumapelo, MP assured President Ghali and his delegation of the support of the government and people of the RSA in their struggle against colonial oppression and self-determination.

He cited the support expressed by President Ramaphosa when welcoming President Ghali and delegation in the country.

He conveyed his best wishes to the delegation during their stay in the RSA.
After the end of the meeting, President Ghali accompanied by Mr Mahumapelo, MP – the Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on International Relations and Cooperation and Ambassador Billy Masetla – Ambassador of the RSA in SADR signed the distinguished guest book at foyer of the NCOP building.

5.
5.

General outcomes of the meeting 4 27 The meeting further deliberated and agreed as follows: 1) Establishment of Joint Committee at the parliament to parliament level to deal with the issue of the Western Sahara; 2) The briefing meeting reaffirmed the RSA continued support and solidarity with the people of the SADR in their struggle for self- determination; 3) The briefing meeting was a success.

6.
6.

Recommendations and/or Action by Parliament None 5 28 (e) Report of the First Ordinary Session of the sixth Pan African Parliament, 24 Oct – 11 Nov 2022.

29 REPORT OF THE FIRST ORDINARY SESSION OF THE SIXTH PAN AFRICAN PARLIAMENT 24 OCTOBER TO 11 NOVEMBER 2022 1.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY OF THE FIRST ORDINARY SESSION OF THE SIXTH PAN AFRICAN PARLIAMENT 30 The First Ordinary Session of the Pan African Parliament (PAP) was held from the 24th of October to the 11th of November 2022, at the PAP Headquarters in Gallagher Estate, Midrand, Republic of South Africa.

This Session was held under the 2022 Theme of the African Union, “Building resilience in nutrition on the African continent: Accelerate the human capital, social and economic development”.
The Guest of Honour was His Excellency Minister Ronald Lamola, the Minister of Justice and Correctional Services who represented His Excellency President Cyril Ramaphosa.

The Sixth Ordinary Session was also graced by the former President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, His Excellency President Olusegun Obasanjo.
President Obasanjo briefed the Plenary about peace and security situation in Africa, in particular the recently signed peace agreement between the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front.

The programme of important presentations, reports and joint committee sittings.

Without being exhaustive, this include the following: the Session was comprehensive with various 1.
High Level Parliamentary Dialogue on Democracy, Human Rights and Governance in Africa, which was held under the theme, “Unconstitutional Changes in Government and Political Transitions in Africa”.

2.

Presentation and debate on the African Union theme for 2022, “Building resilience in nutrition on the African continent: Accelerate the human capital, social and economic development”.

3.

Presentation and debate on the performance review report of the PAP Activities; 4.
Presentation and debate on the status of peace and security in Africa; 5.

Presentation of the Model Law on Statelessness; 6.

Presentation and debate on the report of the roundtable on advancing democratic governance through the implementation of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance (ACDEG) and enhanced citizen engagement; 7.

There were also presentations, debate and adoption of various PAP Committees reports.
In addition to the abovementioned programme items, the Sixth Ordinary Session also witnessed the convening of the 13th Conference of Women’s Rights under the theme, “Women empowerment and inclusion in governance”.

The Hon Speaker of the National Assembly, Hon Nosiviwe Mapisa Nqakula was the Guest of Honour in this Conference.
In addition to the presence of the Hon Speaker the National Assembly, a multiparty women Members of Parliament from the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa also attended and participated in this Conference.

2 31 Of significance during the Sixth Ordinary Session was the adoption of the amended PAP Rules of Procedure on 04 November 2022.

The PAP Rules of Procedure were adopted on 21 September 2004.

The first amendment of the PAP Rules of Procedure was on 10 October 2011.
The amendment of the PAP Rules of Procedure is of significant important because it will result in the maintenance and preservation of order and decorum of the House.

In addition to the above, the amendment of the PAP Rules of Procedure will result in the leadership stability and the preservation of the institutional memory of the PAP.
In addition to the above, the Sixth Ordinary Session adopted a number of important recommendations and resolutions (copies of the adopted Motions, Recommendations and Resolutions are attached as part of this report).

The delegation from the Parliament of the Republic moved two motions: 1.

Motion to congratulate the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front on the signing of the peace agreement; and 2.

Motion for the immediate end of the Democratic Republic of Congo Conflict.
The abovementioned motions were adopted by the Plenary and they were later adopted as the resolutions of the First Ordinary Session of the Sixth Pan African Parliament.

It is of cardinal important to note that, due to its significance, the Plenary resolved to hand over, as a gift, the adopted motion to congratulate the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and Tigray People’s Liberation Front to President Obasanjo who led the AU Mediators during the peace negotiations.
This report all contains recommendations for the urgent attention of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa.

The abovementioned recommendations include the following: 1.

The urgent need for Parliament to meet with the Department of International Relations and Protocol regarding the contentious clauses in PAP Revised Protocol (Malabo Protocol); 2.

The urgent for Parliament to meet with DIRCO regarding the renewal of the expired Technical Annexures in the Host Country Agreement; 3.
The urgent need for Parliament to get an update from DIRCO and Department of Public works regarding progress in the building of the PAP Headquarters by the Government of the Republic of South Africa.

The Delegation from the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa to the Sixth Ordinary Session was consist of the following Members and Officials: 1.

Hon Pemmy Majodina, MP; 2.

Hon Amos Masondo, MP (Leader of the Delegation); 3.

Hon Richard Majola, MP; and 4.

Hon Professor Mathole Motshekga, MP.


3 32 The Delegation was supported by the following officials: 1.

Mr Modise Kabeli; 2.

Ms Akhona Dlomo; 3.

Mr Ntokozo Mkosana; 4.

Mr Sthembiso Tembe 2.

AMENDMENT TO THE PAP RULES OF PROCEDURE The Pan-African Parliament adopted amendments to its Rules of Procedure, which marked a turning point in how this 18-year-old continental legislature will be conducting its business.
The adoption of the amended rules by the First Ordinary Session of the PAP’s Sixth Parliament marked a historic occasion as it was the first time that the five Regional Caucuses of the African Union (Central, Eastern, Northern, Southern and Western Regions) unanimously, and through consensus, agreed to speak with one voice in accordance with the PAP slogan of One Africa One Voice.
In the past it was difficult for the five Regions to unanimously agree and to reach consensus due to the toxic regional divisions which hindered progress and unity for the common objective.

The biggest regions in terms of numbers used their majority to ensure that during elections their candidates are voted for and their interests carried through popular vote when there were differing views.
However, during this session the Bureau and the Chairpersons of the Regional Caucuses met regularly to discuss and build consensus to ensure that the decisions taken on the amendment of the Rules was conducted in a spirit of collegiality.

In this regard, the PAP used the better part of its sitting (24- 31 October) to convene Regional Caucuses to propose and agree on the proposed amendments.
In turn, the Regional Caucus Chairpersons met with the Bureau to discuss and to reach consensus on the proposed amendments.

The PAP Rules of Procedure were first adopted in September 2004 with the first amendments taking place in October 2011.

Following the election of the new Bureau in June this year, the PAP held a Strategic Reorientation Workshop during the Committee Sitting in August under the theme, “Reviving, Renewing, Repositioning and Reinvigorating the Pan African Parliament”.
It was during this workshop that the PAP identified the amendment of the Rules of Procedure as a key priority area to revive, renew, reposition and to reinvigorate PAP.

The following are some of the PAP Rules of Procedure adopted by the Plenary: 1.

Rule 14 which has been amended to apply the African Union rules and values, including the principle of geographical rotation among the five regions of Africa, in election of Members of the Bureau; 2.
Rule 7 which provides for holding the declaration of a vacancy in abeyance until it is confirmed that a Member holding that position is not re-designated or re-elected by a National Parliament; 3.

Sub-rule 12 of Rule 16 to ensure that at least two of the five Members of Bureau are female; and providing for the Chairperson of a Member’s regional caucus to 4 33 temporarily fill his or her ‘vacancy’ until the electoral process in the Members country are concluded.
The adoption of the PAP Rules of Procedure was a positive step as it will bring order and restore the decorum of this continental Parliament.

It will ensure that, unlike before, the PAP will regulate its own internal processes and inspire confidence to the citizens of the African Continent.

Rule 7 will ensure that there is stability and less turnover every time there are elections in the Member State.
Rule 14 also is of significant important as it put an end to the issue of geographical rotation in the PAP.

It will ensure that the PAP emulates the AU and its other Organs where positions are shared and occupied rotationally.

3.

RECOMMENDATIONS ADOPTED BY THE PLENARY DURING THE FIRST ORDINARY SESSION OF THE SIXTH PARLIAMENT The First Ordinary Session of the Sixth Pan African Parliament adopted the following recommendations (attached for ease of reference): 1.
Recommendation of 2022 High Level Parliamentary Dialogue on Democracy, Human theme, Rights and Governance “Unconstitutional changes in Government and political transitions in Africa”.

in Africa which was held under the 2.

Recommendations of the 13th Conference on Women’s Rights; and 3.

Recommendation on Labour Migration in Africa; 4.


RESOLUTIONS ADOPTED BY THE PLENARY DURING THE FIRST ORDINARY SESSION OF THE SIXTH PARLIAMENT The First Ordinary Session of the Sixth Pan African Parliament adopted the following resolutions (attached for ease of reference): 1.

Resolution congratulating the Federal Republic of Ethiopia and the Tigray People’s Liberation Front on the signing of the Peace Agreement; 2.

Resolution calling for the immediate end of the DRC Conflict; 3.
Resolution on solidarity and support to the Government and the people of Republic of Mozambique; 4.

Resolution to support the East African crude oil pipeline project; 5.

Resolution calling for the immediate lifting of unilateral economic sanctions imposed on Zimbabwean Government by the United States, United Kingdom and the European Union; 5 34 6.
Resolution calling for the ratification and implementation of the additional Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol); 7.

Resolution on the roundtable on advancing democratic governance through the implementation of the African Charter on Democracy, Elections and Governance and enhanced citizens engagement; 8.

Resolution on labour migration; 9.

Resolution on the African Continental Free Trade Area; 10.
Resolution on the adoption of the Model Law on food and nutrition security in Africa; 11.

Resolution on Model Police Law for Africa; 12.

Resolution on elimination of harmful practices related to accusations of witchcraft and ritual attacks; 13.

Resolution on the promotion of ratification of the Protocol on persons with disability and Protocol on Older Persons; 14.

Resolution on the formulation of a Model Law on Labour Migration in Africa; 15.
Resolution on the formulation of a Model Law on Gender Parity in Africa; 16.

Resolution on the promotion of African Union Ten Year Action Plan to eradicate child labour, forced labour, human trafficking and modern slavery (2020-2030) 17.

Resolution on the formulation of a Model Law on Statelessness; 18.

Resolution on the Development of a Model Law on Cooperation in Africa; and 19.

Resolution on the development of a Model Legislation on Factoring in Africa.

5.
5.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR THE URGENT ATTENTION OF THE PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA The following recommendations need an urgent attention of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa.

Some of these issues, such as the lack of progress in building the permanent seat of the Pan African Parliament in accordance with Host Country Agreement is being used to attack the suitability and commitment of the Government of South Africa to Host the PAP.

6 35 5.1.
6 35 5.1.

THE RATIFICATION OF THE REVISED PROTOCOL The ratification of the PAP’s revised Protocol is one of the important obligations of all the African Union Member States in general and PAP in particular.

After a length and cumbersome process, the revised Protocol was adopted by the Assembly of Heads of State and Government during the Summit in June 2014, at Malabo, Equatorial Guinea.
Amongst other things, the revised Protocol gives the PAP powers to draft Model Laws at the request of the African Union.

This is regarded as little, yet very important step in PAP’s quest for transformation from being an advisory body to an organ with legislative powers.
Through the revised Protocol, the PAP will be empowered to develop the legal framework upon which Africa can begin the process of building strong democratic institutions that would deepen democracy, good governance, transparency and accountability, which are the prerequisites for development, peace and stability.

However, in order for the revised Protocol to come into force, it must be ratified by a sufficient number of Member States.
In accordance with the provisions of Article 23 of the Protocol (Entry into Force) this Protocol shall enter into force thirty (30) days after the deposit of the instruments of ratification with the Chairperson of the AU Commission by a simple majority of the Member States.

In this case, a simple majority of AU Member States would entail 54 AU Member States divided by 2 plus 1, which is equal to 28 ratifications.
States that have not ratified by then must accede in terms of Article 24 (1), by depositing an instrument of accession.

In practice, the high number of ratifications required will mean that it will take several years to reach the 28 threshold.

As one of the leading democratic states in the continent, and most importantly, the Host country to the PAP, it is recommended that South Africa should initiate the processes to ratify the revised Protocol.
However, at the moment there are various contentious clauses that seem to contradict our constitution.

On the basis of the above, it is recommended that the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa should consider to engage the Department of International Relations and Cooperation in order to seek guidance on how to deal with the ratification process despite the existence of the contentious clauses in the Malabo Protocol.

5.2.
5.2.

THE BUILDING OF THE PAP HEADQUARTERS In accordance with the provisions of the Host Country Agreement which the Government of the Republic of South African signed with African Union to host the PAP, South Africa is expected to build the PAP headquarters.

18 years since the formation of the PAP in March 2004, the building of the PAP headquarters has not yet been initiated.

This is a serious cause for concern considering the exorbitant annual rental fees that South Africa pays to the Gallagher Estate.
In addition to the above, the current venue, Gallagher Estate, where the PAP is rented is not conducive to ensure effectiveness and efficiency of the PAP.

There are limited office spaces for staff and Members of Parliament.

This challenge will be more 7 36 prevalent considering that the PAP is currently in the process of being transformed from its current status as a consultative and advisory to body to an organ with legislative powers.
The lack of progress on this issue is becoming a thorny issue and an embarrassment, not only to the South African delegation, but to the Southern Africa Region as the hosting Region as well.

The Delegation of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa is now regarded as liars because they have been promising year in and year out that this matter will be attended to.
On the basis of the above, it is recommended that Parliament should consider making a follow-up to the Executive (DIRCO) and Department of Public Works about the causes of the delay and to find out when will the commencement of building of the PAP headquarters begin.

5.3.
5.3.

AN URGENT NEED TO RENEW THE TECHNICAL ANNEXURES TO THE HOST COUNTRY AGREEMENT Like the issue of building the permanent seat of the PAP, this is another thorny issue for the Delegation of the Parliament of the Republic of South Africa in the PAP.

The Technical Annexures to the Host Country Agreement expired in 2009.
However, while the Government of the Republic of South Africa continued to fulfil its obligations under the in accordance with the Host Country Agreement, the PAP has been facing various challenges such as the obsolete ICT equipment.

The provision of the ICT equipment is the responsibility of the Government of the Republic of South Africa as per the provisions of the Technical Annexures of the Host Country Agreement.
Concerns regarding the expiry of the Technical Annexures to the Host Country Agreement between the Government of the Republic of South Africa and the African Union have been raised in almost every Session of the PAP and no visible progress has been made to resolve this matter.
The Non-renewal of the Technical Annexures to the Host Country Agreement has prevented the Government of the Republic of South Africa to provide support to the PAP on the ICT and other areas as it is no longer governed by any agreement.

This has created the impression that the Government of the RSA doesn’t care about the PAP.
On the basis of the above, it is recommended that Parliament should consider to request an update from the Department of International Relations and Cooperation (DIRCO) on the progress regarding the review/ renewal of the Technical Annexures.

The renewal of the Technical Annexures will ensure that the Government of the Republic of South Africa continues to provide adequate support to the PAP as per the provisions of the Host Country Agreement.
8 37 (f) Report of the virtual executive committee (EXCO) of the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) ahead of the 52nd SADC Plenary Assembly, 18 November 2022.
38 REPORT OF THE VIRTUAL EXECUTIVE COMMITTEE (EXCO) OF THE SADC PARLIAMENTARY FORUM (SADC PF) AHEAD OF THE 52nd SADC PLENARY ASSEMBLY 18 November 2022 1 39 EXECUTIVE SUMMARY The SADC PF Executive Committee (EXCO) during its meeting on the 18th of November 2022 decided on the following substantive items to improve the efficiency and expedite the transformation of the Forum.
• Update on the SADC PF transformation, EXCO is requested to note that if the majority is not obtained on the Amendment to the Treaty after circulation by the SADC Secretariat, this may stall all further transformation initiatives.

Therefore, the Member States, including South Africa who has not yet signed the Amendment do so as soon as possible so that the figure of 12 out of 16 signatures is reached.
Regarding the arrangements for South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signature of the Amendment Treaty, the Department of International and Cooperation (DIRCO) informed the IRPD that it (DIRCO) has requested suitable dates from the Presidency to sign the Treaty.
• Alignment of the SADC-PF Leadership with the SADC Troika System: EXCO, amongst others, endorsed the amendment of rules to ensure alignment of the positions of the Presidency and Vice-Presidency of the Forum with the Presidency and Vice-Presidency of the SADC Summit.

In practice, the country that heads/chairs the SADC Summit will also chair/presides (Speaker/Presiding Officer) the Forum.

The same would apply to the Vice- President of the Forum who would align with the Vice-President of the SADC Summit.
In this way, when Forum (or eventually the SADC Parliament) is discussed on the Agenda of the SADC Summit, it would be administratively convenient for the Speaker/Presiding Officer of a SADC-PF Member Parliament to engage directly and lobby his or her Head of State.
• • The theme for the 52nd Plenary Assembly: EXCO endorsed theme for the 52nd Plenary Assembly will be “The role of parliaments in strengthening legislative frameworks for peace and security in the SADC region” which would allow SADC MPs to deliberate fully and make relevant motions around this crucial theme that is fundamental to human rights and socio- economic progress in the region.

For the 52nd Plenary Assembly to be held in Kinshasa, DRC with the gracious hosting of the National Assembly of the DRC.
Implementation of the recommendations emanating from the Job Evaluation: Member Parliaments are encouraged to second staff to the Forum on a full-time basis at their own cost in line with the resolution of the 50th Plenary Assembly.

The EXCO heard that the Forum has yet to appoint a seconded Internal Auditor.

Requests were made to parliaments for a secondment but no parliament has volunteered to fill the position.
Impact of no-increase in Members’ contributions: It is projected that the salary bill, in the absence of increases in Member Contributions, will be at 99% of the Forum’s budget by 2026.

It is therefore imperative that the Membership considers the financial position of the institution because of the resolution not to increase Member Contributions vis-à-vis the ever-increasing costs due to inflation, depreciation of the local currency, rising interest rates, and absence of donor funding.
By 2026, a strategy must already be executed to address the risks to the going concern.

• • Mode of Operations/Implementation of Activities for 2023/2024: Due to financial constraints, both the 53rd and 54th Plenary Assemblies and two Executive Committee meetings are proposed to be held physically.

All the Sub-Committee meetings will take place virtually (FSC, HR & PCD, Legal, & Parliamentary Business unless external funding is available for physical meetings.).

2 40 • EXCO 2022 – 2024: Hon.


Speaker and Hon.

Bergman were endorsed to serve on EXCO, but Hon.

Bergman will serve for one year as an ex-officio without voting rights but deliberative rights.

Hon.

Speaker will serve for two years as a substantive Member with voting rights.

1.

INTRODUCTION Purpose of the meeting: To consider reports related to the Forum’s management and approve the business of the upcoming 52nd Plenary Assembly.

Delegation Members: • Mr. Darren Bergman, MP – Treasurer of the Forum.
Delegation Secretariat: • Dr. N. Leibrandt-Loxton – IRPD • Ms. M. Monnakgotla – IRPD 2.

MEETING OUTCOMES Following the adoption of its previous minutes, the meeting considered the following items and resolved as follows: 2.1 Consideration of the Chairperson’s Report to EXCO The Report set out the main intervention areas of the SADC PF since the last EXCO Report circulated in May 2022.
These included the following: • Socio-economic outlook: EXCO was encouraged to note decisions of the SADC Summit held in the DRC from 13 – 14 August 2022, to implement the 2022 Synthesis Report on the State of Food and Nutrition Security, and to share among themselves information, technologies, experience and expertise in the implementation of programmes aimed at improving the food security, nutrition, and livelihoods security within the Framework of the SADC Food and Nutrition Security Strategy.
EXCO was informed that only a few countries in Southern Africa are producers of basic food commodities, and most countries depend heavily on imports to meet a demand of at least 60% of the consumer market.

• Democratisation and elections in Southern Africa: EXCO is invited to consider the issue of the low, sporadic, and inconsistent participation to EOMs by the Forum that may lead to an unwarranted differential treatment to countries.
For instance, a Member of Parliament that has diligently fielded delegates and contributed to nearly all EOMs will be necessarily disadvantaged when an EOM is not held in its home country at the time when parliamentary elections are to take place.

Also, the decision of respective Speakers of Parliament heading the missions for upcoming election missions in 2023 and 2024.
• Peace, Security, and international cooperation: Given that peace and security continue to be a momentous theme that deeply affects the Continent and the SADC region, EXCO is requested to consider pursuing deliberations on the theme at the forthcoming Plenary Assembly (please see paragraph further below on the proposed Theme for the 52nd Plenary Assembly.
3 41 • Update on the transformation of the SADC PF: Given that the Amendment to the SADC Treaty has not yet been signed by the majority of Member States, it is resolved that EXCO intensify lobbying through the Lobby Missions of the Forum to engage Heads of State and Government of the SADC who have not yet signed the Amendment to the Treaty.
It is noted that if the majority is not obtained after circulation by the SADC Secretariat of the request to sign the Amendment, this may stall all further transformation initiatives.

There is, thus, a need to ensure that Member States who have not yet signed the Amendment do so as soon as possible so that the figure of 12 out of 16 signatures is reached.
Regarding the arrangements for South African President Cyril Ramaphosa’s signature of the Amendment Treaty, the Department of International and Cooperation (DIRCO) informed the IRDP that it (DIRCO) has requested suitable dates from the Presidency to sign the Treaty.

THE 41ST SADC Summit approved the transformation of the SADC –PF into a SADC Regional Parliament to ensure broader citizen participation in regional affairs.
It will also facilitate more extensive debate on regional issues and thus accelerate the implementation of SADC protocols that need to be ratified and domesticated into national legislation.

This can become a key driver of integration and development, bridging the gap between citizens and policymakers.

• Update on post-adoption strategies of the SADC Model Law on GBV: The launch of the GBV Model Law is deferred to 2023 since the Parliament of South Africa is no longer hosting the 52nd Plenary.
The decision was for the GBV Model Law to be officially launched by the President of the Republic of South Africa, H.E.

Cyril Ramaphosa.

The launch will have been timely as it would have coincided with the 16 Days of Activism Against GBV for 2022.
• Alignment of the SADC-Pf Leadership with the SADC Troika System: Given promoting an alignment of mandate between the SADC-PF and the SADC institutional framework and ensuring that the agenda of the Forum at the Summit level is dealt with by the leadership of the same country, it is proposed that the Presidency and Vice-Presidency of the Forum be aligned with the Presidency and Vice-Presidency of the SADC Summit.
In other words, when the SADC Summit will be chaired by the Head of a particular SADC Member State, the Forum will also be chaired by the Speaker/Presiding Officer of the same Member State.

The same would apply to the Vice-President of the Forum who would align with the Vice-President of the SADC Summit.
In this way, when Forum (or eventually the SADC Parliament) is discussed on the Agenda of the SADC Summit, it would be administratively convenient for the Speaker/Presiding Officer of a SADC-PF Member Parliament to engage directly and lobby his or her Head of State.

In this light, EXCO is requested to reflect on the following amendments: ü The rules regarding election at the EXCO level will be amended since there will be no elections for the President and the Vice-President.
The appointment of all other EXCO Members, such as the Treasurer, will not change.

It will be specified in the Constitution and the Rules of Procedure that the President and Vice-President will be from the same country as the Chairperson and Deputy Chairperson of the SADC Troika system.

ü ü The tenure of the President and Vice-President will be of one year (aligned to the tenure of the Presidency and Vice-Presidency of the SADC Summit) whilst the tenure of other EXCO Members will remain at two years.
• Review of the issue of quotas for the Forum Staff: Although geographical representation is an important aspect of staff servicing and will continue to remain so, EXCO is requested to consider instilling flexibility in the formula such that a candidate may be considered notwithstanding the quota system.

For instance, once the quota is met, EXCO could consider applications on a case-to-case basis and approve them based on merit, if the position is really 4 42 necessary to the Forum’s organogram.
EXCO would then be able to conduct a balancing exercise based on the quota system and all other interests concerned.

Another alternative is to apply a quota system with a maximum ceiling instead of a minimum formula, for instance by simply providing that one country should not have more than three regional staff at any given time.
This would ensure that all countries can participate in a selection exercise, however bearing in mind that at any given time, there should not be more than a total of three regional staff from the same country.
• Update on implementation of Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Project (2019-2023): EXCO is requested to note that due to the good ongoing work of the Forum under the Sexual and Reproductive, HR Project, Sweden has approved a project proposal is made by the Forum for the next phase which is to run from 2023-2026.

In this regard, a Concept Note has already been approved and the Forum is in process of submitting a Project Proposal to Sweden by the end of October 2022.
Based on the Chairperson's report, it is clear whether the Forum met this submission deadline.

• Regional Policy Dialogue on “Strengthening Separation Of Powers & Parliamentary Oversight” in the SADC Region: EXCO is advised to take stock of a Regional Policy Dialogue on Challenges Women face in Political Participation and Representation in the SADC Region held on 6th and 7th November 2022, with financial support from Austrian Development Agency (ADA).
The event especially that Parliaments and Parliamentarians can play in attaining parity in all policy organs, such as national Parliaments and local councils, and political parties.

One of the main outcomes of the meeting is a strategy for the RWPC in lobbying and advocating for gender equality in the Member States in line with SADC Protocol on Gender and Development, as amended.
focused on the role • Update on the theme for Committees of the Forum: It is proposed that the theme for the virtual meetings of committees will be “Consolidating Democracy by Bringing Parliament to the People”.

This theme will give room to SADC citizens or their stakeholder groupings to make direct representations at the Committee level and to present on topics of interest.
• The theme for the 52nd Plenary Assembly: It is proposed that the theme for the 52nd Plenary Assembly will be “The role of parliaments in strengthening legislative frameworks for peace and security in the SADC region” which would allow SADC MPs to deliberate fully and make relevant motions around this crucial theme that is fundamental to human rights and socio- economic progress in the region.
For recall, the 52nd Plenary Assembly will be held in Kinshasa, DRC with the gracious hosting of the National Assembly of the DRC.
• Sweden’s International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA) and SADC-PF collaboration in helping to consolidate the democratic drive in SADC: To mark the remarkable achievements and continued collaboration with the Swedish Embassy, it is thus proposed that the Sida Ambassador at the Swedish Embassy based in Pretoria be invited to the 52nd Plenary Assembly to receive memorabilia of a canvass from the President of the Forum, during the Official Opening Session, which will stand as a token of gratitude to the efforts and interest of Sweden to promoting democracy around the world, and in particular in the SADC region.
The President’s Report was adopted.
2.2 Consideration of Report of the Finance Sub-Committee (Treasurer’s Report) Following recommendations emanating from the Treasurer’s Report, the EXCO adopted the following noteworthy decisions: 5 43 • The EXCO was requested to pronounce itself on the future of the institution in the following statement: “The Executive Committee members believe that the Forum has adequate financial resources to continue in operation for the foreseeable future and accordingly the annual financial statements have been prepared on a going concern basis.
The Executive Committee members have satisfied themselves that the Forum is in a sound financial position and that it has access to sufficient borrowing facilities to meet its foreseeable cash requirements.
The Executive Committee members are also not aware of any material non- compliance with statutory or regulatory requirements or of any pending changes to legislation which may affect the Forum.” • The SADC-PF Financial Position: The Financial Position as of 31st March 2021 is healthy with equity of N$11,188,607 represented by Total Assets of N$48,290,119 and Total Liabilities of N$37,101,512.

There is no identified threat to the going concern status of the institution.
ü Total Operating Expenditure to N$23,959,094 in the previous financial year.

The increase was due to increased expenditure under the Sexual and Reproductive Health and Rights (SRHR) Project due to an increase in the implementation of activities.

the year was N$35,747,142 compared for ü The Operating Surplus was N$3,646,614, while the Total Comprehensive Surplus for the year was N$ 3,364,109 after adding investment income (N$162,477) and deducting finance costs, (N$444,982).
• EXCO is requested to note the proposal to discontinue the consolidation of SADC PF Main Financial Statements with Donor Funded Financial Statements.

Due to, amongst others, to address the lack of information and reporting on grants and project funds.

This situation has since been addressed as the Treasurer’s Report is now more comprehensive, with financial reports for donor funding and other external funding included.
• Mode of Operations/Implementation of Activities for 2023/2024: According to the resolution of the Executive Committee, at its meeting on 13th November 2021, in Johannesburg, South Africa, it is proposed that some of the statutory meetings of the institution be held physically while others are held virtually as follows: o Both the 53rd and 54th Plenary Assemblies are proposed to be held physically.
o Two Executive Committee meetings are proposed to be held physically, with any additional EXCO meetings to be held virtually.

o The budget provides for 2 physical and two virtual meetings.

o All the EXCO Sub-Committee meetings will take place virtually (FSC, HR & PCD, Legal, & Parliamentary Business).

o The budget provides for 2 virtual meetings for each Sub-Committee.
o Standing Committee, RPMLOC, and RWPC meetings are all proposed to be held virtually unless external funding is available for physical meetings.

In this regard, EXCO may wish to note that some Standing Committees may hold physical meetings while others will only be able to hold virtual meetings.

o The budget provides for 2 virtual meetings each for the five Standing Committees, the RPMLOC, and the RWPC.
o For all physical meetings, a provision will be made to facilitate participation through a virtual platform (hybrid system).

6 44 • Member Parliaments’ in-kind Contribution: As per SADC PF's established policy, the costs of participation of the membership in the physical meetings shall be borne by their Member Parliaments unless external funding is made available.
• Mandatory Contributions: N$21,148,050 The Mandatory Member Contributions stand at N$21,148,050 in the Financial Year 2023/2024, with each of the fourteen Member Countries contributing an amount of N$1,501,500 per annum.

Seychelles' contribution is pegged at N$127,050 per annum.

• Going concern with 2023/2024 Budget: The proposed budget for 2023/2024 has a minimal projected surplus compared to previous years.
It is therefore imperative that the Membership considers the financial position of the institution because of the resolution not to increase Member Contributions vis-à-vis the ever-increasing costs due to inflation, depreciation of the local currency, rising interest rates, and absence of donor funding.

By 2026, a strategy must already be executed to address the risks to the going concern.
• Major Risk - Staff Emoluments: It is projected that the salary bill, in the absence of increases in Member Contributions, will be at 99% of Contributions by 2026.

• Seconded Staff: Regarding seconded staff, it is envisaged that the key position of Director of Programmes will be seconded by a Member of Parliament on a full-time basis.
It is important to note that, although the seconded staff enabled significant savings to be made, those seconded on a part-time basis understandably prioritised their national Parliaments before the Forum, and hence the need for full-time secondments in respect of key positions.
• Networking and Visibility: As the Forum transitions into a Regional Parliament, there has been an increasing demand for the Forum to participate in the meetings of other regional and global Parliamentary bodies such as the SADC, PAP, CPA, and the IPU to promote collaboration and visibility.
In addition, the Task Team on Transformation composed of the SADC Secretariat and SADC PF Secretariat staff will also continue to meet, according to the resolution of the 41st SADC Summit of Heads of State and Government and the Council of Ministers which met in August 2021 in Malawi.

• Contributions to Election Observation Missions from Member Parliaments (Not included): During the Financial Year 2023/2024, the following countries are expected to hold elections: DRC, Eswatini, and Zimbabwe.
The budget requires specific contributions from Member Parliaments towards the Election Observation Missions, pegged at US$5,000 per Parliament per Mission, with an expected participation of about 9 Parliaments per Mission based on the total expected cost of approximately N$2.4 million for the three EOMS.

This proposed contribution is, however, not reflected in the budget as the funding source is not confirmed.
The funds will be treated as supplementary and accounted for as received following the Election Observation Missions.

An amount of N$300,000 only has been provided as seed funding.

The Treasurer’s Report was adopted.
2.3 Consideration of Report of the Legal and Human Resources and Capacity DevelopmentSub-Committees The Legal Sub-Committee met on the following matters discussed during its meeting: • Case of Mr. Lovemore Mabuku, Office Assistant: The host Parliament (of the Republic of Namibia) has gracefully volunteered to assist in setting up an Investigation Committee to initiate this disciplinary process, by tapping into the resources of various Ministries for 7 45 appropriate members from the HR department to constitute the Investigation Committee, as well as a transcriber to record statements from parties.
• Staff Movement: Mr. Pedro Lusakalalu, an Angolan national who has been serving as Language Services Officer at the Forum, was due to retire from the Forum on 2nd November 2022 on attaining the retirement age of 65 years.

In this respect, the Joint Committee recommends that EXCO approve that: o The Forum invests in language services given that it is a constitutional requirement under Article 29 of the Forum’s constitution to have more than 1 official language (currently 3 working languages are official).
o Mr. Lusakalalu is kept on the database of language service providers, whilst the Forum considers adequate replacement through recruitment or secondment of the regional post.

In this regard, consideration may be given for financial resources to be allocated for recruitment despite the high costs involved given that the Forum needs language services permanently.
o To ensure a smooth transition, Mr. Lusakalalu is engaged by the Forum for a further period of between one and two years so that he can continue to coordinate language services in the Forum until a replacement is found for him, and to support his successor, once identified, to settle in the new role.
o A budget is allocated for an adequate staff farewell to be organised for the departure of Mr. Lusakalalu who had been in loyal service to the Forum for more than 15 years and assisted more than 25 Plenary Assemblies and hundreds of statutory meetings.

The Speaker and the Parliament of Namibia be commended for the commitment to contribute towards a staff farewell for Mr. Pedro Lusakalalu.
o • Implementation of the recommendations emanating from the Job Evaluation: The Joint Committee recommends that EXCO: o Takes note of the above human resource management issues which pose a performance risk for the Forum since the Secretariat is the driving engine of the Forum’s operations.
Whilst it is understood that financial constraints result from the fact that member subscriptions may not be increased at the moment, EXCO is requested to take note of the matter because of devising appropriate future secondment/recruitment strategies.

o Encourages Parliaments to second staff to the Forum on a full-time basis at their own cost in line with the resolution of the 50th Plenary Assembly.

The Sub-Committee’s report was adopted.

2.4.
Consideration of Report of the Parliamentary Business Sub-Committee The Parliamentary Business Sub-Committee presented the following outcomes to EXCO following its meeting • Briefing on the theme for the 52nd Plenary Assembly Session by the Secretary-General: The Secretary-General presented the proposed theme for the 52nd Session “The role of parliaments in strengthening legislative framework for peace and security in the SADC region” and highlighted this theme would not be limited to war, it will take on-board first-generation rights, and allow Parliaments to debate looking at components of the right to life, free speech and conscience, freedom from torture and or arbitrary detention among others.
8 46 • Briefing on hosting arrangements for the 52nd Plenary Assembly Session by the plenary host Speaker and President of SADC-PF: The Sub-Committee received and approved the report by the Host Speaker and President of SADC PF, Hon.

Christophe Mboso N'kodia Pwanga, on the hosting arrangements for the 52nd Plenary Assembly under the Hosting and Cost Sharing Agreement between the SADC-PF and the Parliament of DRC.
• Appreciation to the Host Parliament: The Sub-Committee expressed its gratitude to the Parliament of DRC for hosting the Plenary Assembly and for all the arrangements put in place for the convenience of delegates.
• Presentation on the media and communication plan for the 52nd Plenary Assembly: To ensure optimum visibility of the Plenary Assembly Session, the host Parliament has put in place arrangements for the accreditation of various national and international media and will liaise with the Secretariat in this regard.

On the part of the Secretariat, the Secretary-General informed the meeting that a media consultant will be engaged to compile a newsletter and undertake media liaison.
Social media platforms will also be capitalised as usual to ensure a wider reach • Proposal to honour the Government of Sweden for its financial support to SADC-PF: The Sub-Committee duly noted the proposal for SADC PF to formally honour the Government of Sweden during the 52nd Plenary Session for its unflinching support to SADC PF over the last 10 years.

The financial support has gone a long way in enabling SADC PF to deliver on its flagship programmes, including the development of model laws.
The matter will be presented through the President’s report to EXCO.

• Briefing on the draft budget proposal for 2023/2024: The Sub-Committee was informed by the Secretary-General that the Finance Sub-Committee that met on 1st November 2022 did not conclude its business on the draft budget proposal for 2023/2024.

In this regard, the Sub-Committee received a briefing from the Treasurer regarding the context of the budget proposal to be submitted to the EXCO.
The Treasurer explained that on account of various factors, including exchange rate disparity between the operational currency (Namibia Dollar) and the United States Dollar, rising inflation, funding for programmes, and staff emoluments, there was a shortfall in the proposed budget.

In this regard, it was necessary to draw down an amount of N$1,4 million from the retained income.
The Treasurer also advised the SubCommittee that in the long run, a more sustainable solution would be to consider a small percentage increase for subscriptions to guarantee the going concern of the institution.

The Report was adopted.

2.4 Any Other Business Hon.

Bergman noted that the Forum should consider the use of innovation to cut costs He noted that the Forum successfully undertook a virtual observer mission before the national elections in Zambia.
This showed that innovation is better than being on the ground.

The virtual meeting allowed the SADC PF Election Observer Mission to engage all the key stakeholders in Zambia including the head of the electoral commission and the head of the Army at no astronomical cost.

On this issue, the Forum’s SG noted that Hon.


Bergman suggestion is doable but requests that the costing exercise be undertaken to cost virtual meetings vis-à-vis physical and this exercise must be reflected in the Treasure’s report to the Plenary.

She noted that virtual meetings have become very costly.

For instance, each virtual meeting requires six translators paid at US$450 per day, any other ICT-related capacity, and support staff to write a report.
She also noted that donors are no longer not keen to fund election observation missions but, instead, 9 47 choose to focus on funding post-election programmes, including the domestication of the SADC Model Law on Elections.

3.

RECOMMENDATIONS FOR PARLIAMENT Parliament is advised to note the developments concerning the upcoming 52nd Plenary Assembly to prepare for it accordingly.

ENDS 10 48 National Assembly 1.


The Speaker (a) Reply by the Minister of Public Works and Infrastructure to Budgetary Review and Recommendation Report of Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure on Performance of National Department of Public Works and entities (2021/22), as adopted by the House on 15 November 2022.

Referred to the Portfolio Committee on Public Works and Infrastructure.

49