His Majesty King Mohammed VI sent a congratulatory message to President of the Republic of Chile, Gabriel Boric Font, on the occasion of his country’s National Day.

In this message, the Sovereign expresses His sincere congratulations and wishes for further progress and prosperity to the Chilean people.

HM the King reiterates the Kingdom’s determination to consolidate relations of friendship and cooperation with the Republic of Chile, reaffirming His willingness to work with Gabriel Boric Font to extend these ties to all areas in the interests of the two friendly peoples.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Kingdom of Morocco – Ministry of Foreign Affairs, African Cooperation and Moroccan Expatriates.

ECOWAS is strengthening its social protection systems through a 5-day workshop in Abuja from 16th to 20th September 2024. The workshop, led by experts in collaboration with ILO, UNDP, UNICEF, and the African Union, aims to build a network of skilled social protection leaders across Africa. It follows a system-strengthening approach to enhance the design and efficiency of social systems.

The workshop focuses on increasing the capacity of ECOWAS staff, to implement the Social Protection Framework effectively while fostering collaboration among social protection actors within the region.It represents a critical step toward building an inclusive social safety net in West Africa, positioning ECOWAS to address broader socio-economic challenges.

The ongoing workshop comes less than a year after the landmark validation of the ECOWAS Social Protection Framework and its Operational Plan in November 2023. At that time, social protection experts and ministers from ECOWAS member states gathered to endorse the framework, marking a historic moment for the region. This document was later recommended to the ECOWAS Council of Ministers for adoption by social protection ministers.

The ECOWAS Social Protection Framework holds the potential to address some of the most pressing challenges facing member states in the design and implementation of social protection programs. Notably, it aims to tackle critical issues such as financing, coverage gaps, and coordination—challenges that have long hindered the region’s ability to provide comprehensive social safety nets for its citizens.

In her opening remarks, the ECOWAS Director of Humanitarian and Social Affairs Dr. Sintiki Tarfa–Ugbe represented by Dr. Daniel Amankwaah, P.P.O, Law Enforcement (Drugs) emphasized the vital role of improved social protection systems in Africa’s broader fight against poverty. She highlighted how strengthening these systems directly supports the achievement of Sustainable Development Goal (SDG) 1, which aims to eradicate poverty in all its forms. Specifically, the framework aligns with SDG target 1.3, which calls for the establishment of nationally appropriate social protection systems and measures for all, particularly for the most vulnerable groups.

Additionally, the training aligns with ECOWAS’s own strategic objectives, as outlined in the 4×4 Strategic Objectives and the ECOWAS Community Strategic Framework (Strategic Orientation 16). The Regional ECOWAS Social Protection Framework is a key element in realizing these goals.

Dr. Sintiki noted that improving coordination among these stakeholders is essential for ensuring that the framework delivers its intended impact. By empowering social protection leaders and reinforcing regional cooperation, ECOWAS is laying the groundwork for a more robust and inclusive social safety net across West Africa, positioning the region to better address the social and economic challenges it faces, she added.

Mrs. Adebisi Arije, Partnership Manger (ECOWAS) UNICEF, praise the ECOWAS Social Protection Framework as a strong sign of the importance attached to the Social Protection and strengthening of social protection systems and mechanisms, which includes humanitarian and fragile settings. The UN organizations consider this a milestone and are willing to support ECOWAS and its member states its full implementation.

The transformation training his workshop sets the stage for future progress, demonstrating ECOWAS’s commitment to creating a more secure and equitable future for the people of West Africa.

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

In recognition of the critical role that gender plays in the sustainability and success of small-scale fisheries, AU-IBAR, Mabuyi Development Planners, and he Blue Wild Coast Non-Profit Organization (South Africa) are hosting a two-day community workshop in East London, South Africa. The workshop, running from September 18-19, 2024, aims to develop a Gender Plan of Action for non-governmental organizations (NGOs) operating in small-scale fisheries to support aquatic biodiversity conservation efforts in South Africa. This event serves as a vital platform to address gender disparities in the fisheries sector, amplify the voices of women, and establish gender-sensitive policies and strategies.

Objective of the Workshop

The workshop engages stakeholders from various sectors to co-create and enrich a Gender Policy Document for environmental NGOs. Specifically, it seeks to mainstream gender into aquatic biodiversity conservation and environmental management efforts. Through this collaborative process, the event addresses gender inequalities in small-scale fisheries, enhances female participation in decision-making, and ensures that women’s roles are better recognized across the fisheries value chain.

Participants and Stakeholders

This multi-stakeholder event brings together representatives from AU-IBAR, government agencies, local cooperatives, private sector actors, and gender advocacy organizations, including the South African Network for Women in Fisheries (SANWFA) and the African Women Fish Processors and Traders Network (AWFISHNET). Collectively, these organizations focus on strengthening the roles of women and youth in small-scale fisheries and advancing gender mainstreaming in the sector.

Opening Remarks and Keynotes

The first day of the workshop opens with welcoming remarks from the Blue Wild Coast NPO, emphasizing the importance of civil society in empowering communities with fishing rights and elevating the often-overlooked contributions of women in fisheries.

– Ms. Francisca Mhuriro, who represented the Director of AU-IBAR, delivered an address, emphasising the need for gender equality in aquatic biodiversity conservation. “Equal participation of both men and women in conserving aquatic biodiversity and ecosystems is crucial for Africa’s blue economy development,” she stated. “Yet, women are often marginalized in decision-making due to cultural norms. These constraints limit their access to resources and participation in the sector.” Ms. Mhuriro highlights frameworks such as the Beijing Declaration and Malabo Declaration, which call for affirmative actions to include women in economic opportunities and urges participants to adopt inclusive approaches in fisheries management.

– Mr. Zamkhaya Maseti, representing the Premier’s Office of the Eastern Cape, shared insights into the Eastern Cape province’s Blue Oceans Economy Master Plan, developed in partnership with Nelson Mandela University. “For our province to realize its potential in the blue economy, access to equipment and capacity-building for women is crucial,” he noted. Maseti called for more partnerships with civil society organisations to empower coastal communities, urging for protection from exploitation by external investors.

– Ms. Thabisa Sigwela, from the Buffalo City Maritime Cluster, spoke about her organization’s work supporting projects related to coastal marine tourism, ocean governance, and small harbor development. “South Africa’s 3,000-kilometer coastline is vital for improving the livelihoods of coastal communities,” she noted. Sigwela stressed the need for strategies that balance the exploitation of natural resources with long-term sustainability, emphasizing the importance of involving rural communities, especially women and youth, in these initiatives.

– Ms. Mashebane Thosago, representing SANWFA and AWFISHNET, called for greater female leadership in the fisheries sector. “Gender issues affect every aspect of our lives, and women must be at the forefront of shaping policies that influence their livelihoods,” she stated. Thosago encouraged participants to engage openly in discussions, noting that while sensitive issues may arise, such dialogue is necessary to foster inclusivity and progress.

– Ms. Nozuko Ntsokota, from the South African Department of Forestry, Fisheries and the Environment (DFFE), addressed the barriers women face in accessing markets and infrastructure. “Market access is a significant challenge for small-scale fishers, especially women,” she noted. Ntsokota highlighted the importance of collaborative efforts to open opportunities for women in fisheries cooperatives and praised the mentorship programs being developed for traditional fishers.

Workshop Structure and Themes

Throughout the workshop, participants are expected to gain valuable insights from key stakeholders who discuss current challenges and opportunities for gender equality in small-scale fisheries. The workshop is structured around several key themes:

1. Gender Mainstreaming in Fisheries: Participants will explore concepts of gender mainstreaming and how these apply to aquatic biodiversity conservation. Case studies demonstrate how gender integration can enhance sustainability in fisheries management.

2. Gender Roles in Aquatic Biodiversity Conservation: A dedicated session will examine the distinct roles men and women play in aquatic biodiversity conservation. Although women often engage in fish processing and trading, their involvement in resource management and decision-making is frequently overlooked.

3. Small Group Discussions: Participants break into stakeholder-specific groups to identify challenges faced by women in the fisheries value chain. These discussions focus on practical solutions to improve women’s access to resources and leadership positions.

4. Capacity Building and Policy Development: On the second day, SANWFA will lead a session on gender analysis tools, providing participants with practical strategies for addressing gender disparities. The workshop concludes with the development of a comprehensive Gender Action Plan, which serves as a guide for NGOs working in small-scale fisheries across South Africa.

Why This Workshop Matters

Small-scale fisheries contribute significantly to food security, livelihoods, and biodiversity conservation in South Africa. However, women remain underrepresented and face substantial barriers to participation and leadership. This workshop provides a platform to address these challenges through dialogue, gender-sensitive policy development, and capacity building.

By the end of the two-day workshop, participants are expected to create a comprehensive Gender Action Plan tailored to the realities of NGOs working in small-scale fisheries. This collaborative effort promotes more inclusive and sustainable fisheries management in South Africa, aligning with the goals of the Conserving Aquatic Biodiversity Project under the Africa Blue Economy Strategy, funded by the Swedish International Development Cooperation Agency (SIDA).

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of The African Union – Interafrican Bureau for Animal Resources (AU-IBAR).

The Portfolio Committee on Justice and Constitutional Development today commended the Office of the Public Protector (PPSA) for a comprehensive report on its systemic investigation into administrative deficiencies relating to gender-based violence (GBV) in the South African justice system.

Committee Chairperson, Mr Xola Nqola, said the report’s quality is evident when members unilaterally commend the sterling work done across parties.

The committee heard that the report focused on three key institutions – the Department of Justice and Constitutional Development (DoJ&CD), the South African Police Service (SAPS) and the Department of Social Development (DSD).

The PPSA inspected 38 courts across all nine provinces, interviewed court users and staff, engaged with NGOs, inspected the gender-based violence command centre (GBVCC), inspected the GBV Shelter – the Mali Martin Polokengong Centre, and received written submissions by DOJ&CD, SAPS and DSD.

Regarding their findings, the PPSA said that of the 38 courts inspected – bar the Point Branch Family Court in KwaZulu Natal – none were kept in an operational manner that supports efficient service delivery in terms of legislation. The court buildings were found to be old and dilapidated.

Some recently renovated courts have structural defects with cracked walls and leaking roofs. Several courts visited do not have private/sufficient consultation rooms, and clerks of the court consulted with victims in shared small offices. Most of the courts do not have proper filing systems and space. In some places, files were scattered on the floor. Long queues and inconsistent timelines were also flagged.

The committee heard that in terms of remedial action, the DOJ&CD must, within 180 days, conduct an audit of all courts as established in terms of the Magistrate’s Court Act to determine their infrastructure needs/upgrades/renovations. Within 210 days, the department must audit the current filing systems at the various Magistrate’s Courts and develop/upgrade their filing system in line with the National Archives and Record Services’ Regulations.

Regarding the SAPS, the PPSA said victims are being sent to courts without receiving medical attention, and the clerks of court are then forced to arrange for such services. This is contrary to the Domestic Violence Act (DVA) and the SAPS National Instruction 7 of 1999. Also, applicants are often left on their own to serve protection orders on the respondents, thereby making them vulnerable to further attacks despite the DVA providing for servicing of protection orders by hand by a clerk of the court, sheriff and a peace officer.

SAPS must develop and submit a collaboration plan between SAPS and DSD within 180 days to provide support services to victims of GBV, such as trauma counselling, referral to shelters, and any other effort within this ambit.

In terms of the DSD, the committee heard they have 180 days to submit a detailed project plan to determine the GBVCC’s human resource needs and develop a plan with clear timelines indicating how the capacity constraints in the GBVCC will be addressed and how the need for additional shelters will be addressed.

Mr Nqola said the committee requested that the PPSA provide updates on the implementation of its recommendations. “We commend this excellent work. It is important to remember that the remedial actions of the PPSA are binding on all stakeholders.”

Distributed by APO Group on behalf of Republic of South Africa: The Parliament.