Botswana has officially signed an agreement to amend the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Treaty, a significant move that will facilitate the establishment of the SADC Parliament as a recognized institution within the regional bloc. The signing ceremony took place in Gaborone today, marking a pivotal moment in Botswana’s commitment to regional integration and the strengthening of democratic governance across Southern Africa.
During the event, President Advocate Duma Boko expressed the importance of this decision, noting that it was inevitable for Botswana to sign the treaty. He emphasized that the move reaffirmed the country’s unwavering dedication to regional cooperation and the promotion of parliamentary governance within the Southern African region.
“This is a moment of great pride as we sign this agreement today, affirming our commitment to the SADC Parliament and to working together with our sister countries in the region,” President Boko remarked.
The transformation of the SADC Parliamentary Forum (PF) into a fully-fledged SADC Parliament is expected to greatly enhance the legislative capacity of the regional bloc. This transformation will play a crucial role in promoting democratic processes and fostering greater cooperation among member states. As a result, the newly established SADC Parliament is anticipated to serve as a platform for deliberating regional matters, ensuring that decisions made within the SADC framework reflect the collective interests of its members.
The signing of the agreement positions Botswana as a key player in the ongoing efforts to deepen integration within the Southern African Development Community, contributing to the long-term goals of peace, stability, and sustainable development in the region.
