The Southern African Development Community (SADC) Secretariat Gender Unit hosted a Workshop on Gender Mainstreaming for Organ Staff from 19–21 February 2025, in Johannesburg, South Africa. The workshop aimed to enhance the integration of gender considerations in politics, defence, and security to ensure more inclusive and effective governance. It aligned with the SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020–2030 and the Women, Peace, and Security (WPS) Agenda. Participants included representatives from state and public security sectors, police, the SADC Regional Peacekeeping Training Centre (RPTC), and the Regional Counter-Terrorism Centre (RCTC).
The sessions covered gender-sensitive security policies, the SADC GBV Model Law, and male engagement in addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Conflict-Related Sexual Violence (CRSV). Practical exercises helped participants analyse gender gaps and develop strategies for incorporating gender perspectives into institutional policies and programmes.
ACCORD participated as a resource organisation to share insights on gender-inclusive conflict resolution, mediation, and peacebuilding. Representing ACCORD, Ms. Lwandile Moyo highlighted the importance of women’s participation in peace processes, stating that exclusion weakens the effectiveness of security frameworks. She presented best practices for integrating gender perspectives into peacebuilding and strengthening women’s roles in decision-making.
The workshop concluded with commitments to strengthen gender mainstreaming across SADC’s security structures. Discussions reinforced the need for inclusive governance and policies that reflect diverse community needs. The outcomes will support ongoing efforts to institutionalise gender-responsive approaches within the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence, and Security Affairs, advancing the region’s commitment to sustainable peace and security.
