Durban Hosts 58th SADC PF Plenary Assembly, Focusing on Climate Justice for Youth and Women

The Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) has converged in Durban, South Africa, for its 58th Plenary Assembly, a crucial six-day gathering set to address one of the region’s most pressing challenges: the Impact of Climate Change on Women and Youth. Hosted by the Parliament of South Africa, the assembly runs from November 30 to December 5, 2025.The Plenary Assembly, which brings together Speakers and Members of Parliament (MPs) from 15 SADC Member States, commenced its opening ceremony at the Durban International Convention Centre (ICC) on Sunday, November 30. Its importance lies in fostering a coordinated and collaborative approach across national parliaments.

The Forum helps build the necessary capacity for parliamentarians to effectively use their law-making and oversight mandates to ensure an equitable SADC region. The central theme for the 58th Plenary is highly relevant, focusing on the disproportionate effects of climate change on women and youth, and assessing the Role of Parliaments in Climate Change Mitigation and Adaptation. This emphasis acknowledges that these groups are often the most vulnerable to climate-induced disasters and resource scarcity.The program includes high-level addresses from South African Deputy President Mr.

Paul Mashatile and the new SADC PF President, Mr. Siteny Thierry Randrianasolonioaikio, Speaker of the Parliament of Madagascar. Following the opening, the Forum moves into a Symposium to be held in Umhlanga.

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Day two will feature critical discussions on the impact of disasters in human settlements and the specific challenges faced by host city, eThekwini Municipality, in responding to recurrent floods. The meeting unites lawmakers with development partners, academia, and civil society, ensuring a holistic, informed approach to building resilience across the SADC region.

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