I am honoured to have been elected as Chairperson of the Committee on Gender, Family, Youth and Persons with Disabilities within the Pan African Youth Parliament.
I accept this responsibility with a clear understanding of what it requires: leadership that is accountable, inclusive, and focused on delivering real outcomes for the people we represent.
My work has always been grounded at community level. Through The Great People of South Africa, I have worked with women, young people, and persons with disabilities to address issues of gender-based violence, access to justice, mental health, and child protection. This experience has shaped my approach to leadership, one that prioritises participation, practical solutions, and the lived realities of communities.
As Chairperson, I will be guided by the vision of the African Union’s Agenda 2063, particularly its focus on building an inclusive, people-driven Africa where women and youth play a central role in development, governance, and economic participation.
Agenda 2063 is not only a long-term vision, it is a framework that calls for immediate and coordinated action. It emphasises gender equality, youth empowerment, human rights, and accountable institutions. These priorities directly align with the mandate of this committee.
My focus will be on ensuring that our work contributes meaningfully to these commitments in three key areas:
First, strengthening the participation of women, youth, families, and persons with disabilities in policy processes. Representation must move beyond presence to influence.
Second, addressing the gap between policy and implementation. Across the continent, strong frameworks exist, but communities continue to experience barriers in accessing protection, justice, and services. This committee must prioritise practical, community-informed approaches that ensure policies are implemented effectively.
Third, strengthening coordination and accountability. We must work collaboratively across member states, share knowledge, and ensure that commitments made at continental level translate into measurable outcomes.
This role is not an individual achievement. It is a responsibility to contribute to a broader vision of an Africa that is just, inclusive, and responsive to its people.
I look forward to working with members of the committee to advance this mandate and to ensure that our work reflects both the priorities of Agenda 2063 and the realities of the communities we serve.
Amen, emakhosini.
