Zambia’s representative to the Southern African Development Community-Parliamentary Forum (SADC-PF) Regional Women Parliamentary Caucus and Chairperson of the National Women’s Parliamentary Caucus in the country Hon. Princess Kasune says gender equality remains a key priority in the region through the promotion of good, inclusive governance and accountability.

Commenting on the Policy Dialogue on Challenges faced by Women in Political Participation and Representation,  which was hosted by the SADC PF Regional Women Parliamentary Caucus, in Johannesburg, South Africa, Hon. Kasune, who is also UPND Keembe Member of Parliament and Deputy Government Chief Whip, underscored the importance of gender equality.

She said it was important to identify regional challenges women face and collectively spell out what could be done.

She said gender equality remains a priority in the SADC region and that significant progress that had been recorded in addressing the factors that hinder attainment of equality between men and women.

“When we empower women as leaders and decision-makers, the community and economy benefit. Having more women in positions of power promotes gender equality,” said Hon. Kasune who is Chairperson of the National Women’s Parliamentary Caucus in Zambia.

And Chairperson of the SADC PF Regional Women's Caucus, Regina Esparon said regional policy dialogue provides a convenient and strategic space for parliamentarians, policy makers, representatives of political parties and civil society organizations to take stock of the progress made and the challenges. 

Ms. Esparon said the creation of the Regional Women Parliamentary Caucuses as an organ of the SADC-PF is one of many initiatives by the forum in support of gender equality and women advancement within the forum itself and in SADC National Parliaments. 

 “We should take advantage of the event to renew our commitments in supporting women in their quest for political positions at all levels including national Parliaments, local council and political parties because women are key," Ms. Esparon said.

The Regional Women Parliamentary Caucus of the SADC-PF met yesterday to look at how best women in the region could contribute and benefit from the proposed SADC Integrated Industrial Initiative.

Issued by 
Tamara Nyirenda
First Secretary Press and Public Relations.
Zambia High Commission
South Africa.