At the 58th Plenary Assembly of the SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC-PF), Honourable Princess Mojapelo, representative of South Africa in the Southern Africa Youth Parliament, delivered a powerful speech (See attached speech at the botton ) on behalf of the Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYoF), emphasizing the significant role of youth in shaping policies for the future.
She began by highlighting the unique platform the SADC Youth Parliament provides, asserting its commitment to amplifying young voices and enhancing democratic engagement in the region. The Princess noted that since the 56th Plenary Assembly in Livingstone, Zambia, young people have been granted the extraordinary opportunity to address the highest decision-making body of the SADC PF twice a year—not merely as spectators, but as active partners and leaders.
“This is not symbolism; it is substance,” she affirmed, recognizing the SADC-PF as one of the most youth-inclusive institutions in the region. Young individuals are encouraged to influence the Forum’s direction through various engagements and programs. Honourable Princess Mojapelo expressed gratitude to the Forum’s leadership for their courage and foresight, particularly through initiatives like the Mentorship Programme that prepare young people for future leadership roles.
She also shared the historic milestone achieved with the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding between SAYoF and the SADC PF at the 57th Plenary Assembly in Victoria Falls, Zimbabwe. This agreement solidified a shared vision focused on youth empowerment, digital inclusion, climate governance, and gender equality-all vital issues for the younger generation.
Yet, the Princess stressed that progress must be matched with truth. She addressed the pressing challenges young people across the SADC region face, such as socio-economic exclusion and unemployment. Despite being the most educated and connected generation Africa has known, many young individuals remain shut out from opportunities.
“This situation is not just an economic issue; it is a crisis of dignity and hope,” she asserted, emphasizing the need for comprehensive solutions to youth unemployment that go beyond mere job creation.
Safeguarding peace and security is another crucial concern. Young people in vulnerable regions often face violence firsthand. However, Honourable Princess Mojapelo highlighted that youth are stepping up, engaging in community peacebuilding and mediation efforts. Their proactive stance calls for recognition, protection, and meaningful investment in their initiatives.
She noted the fragility of human security, where poverty, gender-based violence, and limited access to healthcare take a toll on young individuals’ rights and potential. Climate change, she argued, is the defining crisis of this era, with millions of young Africans already feeling its impact daily.
Amidst these challenges, youth across the SADC region are leading the charge in climate action. Honorable Princess Mojapelo recounted the gathering of over 400 young people in Johannesburg for the 4th SADC Youth Forum, which led to the establishment of the SADC Youth Climate Change Envoy. This initiative has fostered the Youth Negotiator Programme and amplified youth voices on international platforms.
The theme of the 58th Plenary Assembly resonates strongly as climate change disproportionately affects women and youth, yet they emerge as champions of innovation and resilience. The Assembly’s approval of the establishment of the SADC PF Youth Caucus is another step toward strengthening youth coordination and creating a lasting impact.
In conclusion, Honourable Princess Mojapelo reaffirmed the expectation for bold, accountable, transformative leadership from parliaments. She invoked the words of Oliver Reginald Tambo: “A country, a movement, a person that does not value its youth and children does not deserve its future,” alongside Nelson Mandela’s assertion that “It is in your hands to create a better world for all who live in it.”
As she wrapped up her speech, the Princess rallied the youth of Southern Africa with an unwavering message:
“We are not leaders in waiting. We are leaders in motion—ready to contribute, eager to lead, and determined to shape a future defined by shared purpose, dignity, and opportunity for all.”
In closing, she echoed a fundamental principle of youth movements across generations: “Nothing for us, without us.”
SADC YOUTH PARLIAMENT ADDRESS TO THE 58TH PLENARY ASSEMBLY – SOUTH AFRICA
