Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYoF) Remarks at the 58TH PLENARY ASSEMBLY SESSION-STANDING COMMITTEE SESSION: delivered by the Head of Health Cluster, Dr. Vivian Joseph: Monday, 27th October 2025 – Premier Hotel OR Tambo, Johannesburg, South Africa.
ABRIDGED SALUTATIONS
- Honourable Speaker of the National Assembly of South Africa and Host of the SADC PF 58th Plenary Assembly, Hon. Thoko Didiza,
- Acting President of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, Hon. Sylvia Elizabeth Lucas,
- Secretary General of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, H.E. Boemo Sekgoma,
- Honourable Members of Parliament of the SADC Parliamentary Forum,
- Esteemed Representatives of Development Partners and Civil Society Organisations,
- All Protocols Observed.
It is both an honour and a privilege to stand before you today on behalf of the Southern Africa Youth Forum (SAYoF) and the SADC Youth Parliament at this significant gathering.
As we convene here under the theme: “Enhancing the Role of Parliamentarians in Advocating for the Signing, Ratification, Accession, Domestication, and Implementation of SADC Protocols.” First, let me take a moment to acknowledge the immense contributions of SADC-PF in creating spaces for youth engagement across our region. We acknowledge the decision taken by the SADC-PF 57th Plenary Assembly to ensure sustainable youth inclusion and effective participation in policy and parliamentary processes. We are excited about the adopted recommendation to institutionalize the Youth Caucus within SADC-PF. This initiative not only amplifies our voices but also ensures that the perspectives of young people are included in crucial discussions and policy decisions. We also applaud the inclusion of young people during Public Hearings by SADC-PF Standing Committees and our participation in adding youth voices during the Plenary Assemblies.
We recognize that our partnership extends beyond dialogue; it’s a partnership for Action! It encompasses mentorship and engagement between SADC-PF and the Southern Africa Youth Parliament, fostering a culture of leadership and advocacy among young people. The collaboration with SADC-PF is a testament to our shared commitment to youth empowerment, development, and inclusion.
In today’s digital age, we must equip our leaders with the necessary skills to navigate the complexities of social media and digital communication. SAYoF appreciates the ongoing partnership with SADC-PF aimed at advancing digital literacy and enhancing the social media capacity of Female Parliamentarians. This initiative not only empowers women in leadership but also strengthens the overall advocacy efforts within our communities and their constituencies. After our submission of the Paper on Tobacco Control, the SAYoF Health Cluster is eager to engage the relevant standing committee to explore steps forward.
We also believe that Youth play a crucial role in advancing the aspirations of the theme for this conference. We are not just passive observers but active participants in the political landscape. We bring youth ideas, complementary perspectives, innovative ideas, and a deep understanding of the challenges that our communities face. In advocating for the signing, ratification, and implementation of SADC protocols, we are ensuring that policies reflect the needs and aspirations of our generation.
SAYoF also acknowledges the vital role of the SADC-PF Standing Committees in promoting youth empowerment and inclusion. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) we have signed with SADC-PF is a strong avenue for sustainable youth engagement. It embodies our commitment to work collaboratively towards a future where youth voices are not only heard but are instrumental in shaping policy decisions.
Furthermore, we recognize our partnership with organizations such as HIVOS in advancing and accelerating access to Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (SRHR) for all ages in the SADC region. The SAYoF Health Cluster, through the initiative ACCELERATING ACCESS TO SRHR FOR ALL AGES IN THE SADC REGION, is ready and eager to collaborate with Honourable Members and Parliaments to advance this critical agenda. Together, we can ensure that every young person has access to the information and services they need to lead healthy, fulfilling lives.
In conclusion, let us collectively strive to enhance the role of parliamentarians in advocating for the matters that concern us all, particularly the youth. Together, we can build a more inclusive, equitable, and prosperous Southern Africa.
Thank you.
