SADC Executive Secretary Elia Magosi says the low implementation of policies aimed at promoting women’s participation in decision-making positions and addressing gender-based violence remains a challenge in the region.

Magosi, in a statement to mark International Women’s Day, highlighted the lack of enforcement of the policies, despite the SADC region adopting reforms to promote gender equality and empowerment.

The SADC Protocol on Gender and Development underscores integrating gender issues into the SADC Programme of Action and Community Building Initiatives.

Magosi stressed that while the SADC region remains committed to gender equality, barriers such as societal roles, legal frameworks, limited access to resources, and discriminatory practices persist.

He urged the SADC member states to take swift and decisive steps to achieve gender equality and eliminate biases in all spheres.

Magosi revealed that the region has also identified strategies to accelerate action towards the achievement of gender equality and the empowerment of all women and girls.

These include forging partnerships for resource mobilization, supporting women and girls in leadership roles and promoting Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics education.