Ms Abigail Noko, Regional Representative for Southern Africa at the Office of the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR), paid a courtesy call on the SADC Secretariat. She was met by Mr. Mike Masiye, Director for Directorate of Policy, Planning and Resources Mobilisation on behalf of the SADC Executive Secretary, His Excellency Mr. Elias M. Magosi on the 15th October 2025 in Gaborone, Republic of Botswana.
Director Masiye highlighted that the social and human development agenda of SADC Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan (RISDP) 2020-2030 is anchored on human rights, as all corresponding programmes on health and education and are meant to promote equal access by the regional citizenry. The RISDP aims to deepen regional integration and foster development in Southern Africa, aligning with the SADC Vision 2050 which aims to create a peaceful, inclusive, and industrialized region where all citizens enjoy sustainable economic well-being, justice, and freedom.
Ms Noko from OHCHR expressed interest in promoting cooperation with SADC, particularly on issues related to capacity building and technical assistance towards the ratification and implementation of key legal instruments. Both sides agreed to undertake follow-up discussions towards concretising possible areas of cooperation.
The two organisations discussed issues of mutual interest and explored areas for strengthening and deepening cooperation. Both sides acknowledged that the prevailing global challenges require the advancement of strategic partnerships for enhancing human rights and regional integration.
Director Masiye was accompanied by Dr. Maxwell Parakokwa, Senior Programme Officer, Employment, Labour and Youth from Directorate of Social and Human Development and Mr. Thokozani S. Mlotsa, Resource Mobilization Officer from Directorate of Policy, Planning and Resource Mobilisation.
