Livingstone, Zambia — December 11, 2024
In a compelling call to action, Speaker of the National Assembly, Nelly Mutti, urged members of parliament across the Southern African Development Community (SADC) to continue championing the voices of the vulnerable in their communities, with a particular emphasis on women.
“Let’s continue championing the voices of the vulnerable in our communities, especially women,” Mutti stated, highlighting the critical need for representation and support for those most at risk.
This plea comes in the wake of growing concerns about the socio-economic challenges facing the region. Mutti emphasized the importance of legislative efforts aimed at empowering women and protecting the rights of the underrepresented and disadvantaged.
In related news, SADC Parliamentary Forum (SADC-PF) President Roger Mancienne drew attention to the recently released 2024 State of Food Security and Nutrition in the World report. The report paints a sobering picture of rising food insecurity across the globe, with Southern Africa among the hardest-hit regions.
“The findings of the report are a clarion call for immediate action. We must address the root causes of food insecurity and work collaboratively to find sustainable solutions,” Mancienne noted.
He further stressed the role of parliaments in enacting policies that can alleviate hunger and malnutrition, emphasizing the need for a unified approach to tackle these pressing issues.
The statements from Mutti and Mancienne underline the critical roles that lawmakers play in shaping the future of their nations. By focusing on the voices of the vulnerable and addressing food insecurity, SADC MPs are being called to lead with empathy, courage, and determination.
As the region faces these daunting challenges, the hope is that such calls to action will translate into tangible changes that uplift and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
