Highlights from the 4th Annual SAMIN Policy Conference
The Southern Africa Migration Network (SAMIN) recently held its 4th Annual Policy Conference from November 4th to 7th, 2023, in Cape Town, South Africa. This year’s theme, ‘The Root Causes of Forced Displacement in Southern Africa’, brought together a diverse group of stakeholders to discuss and address critical migration issues in the region.
Keynote Addresses and Presentations
Father Rampe Hlobo welcomed all delegates, encouraging full participation in the deliberations. Sister Maria de Lurdes Lodi Rissini from the Southern African Catholic Bishops’ Conference highlighted opportunities for collaboration and improving migration management Chief Siboleke Ngqatani delivered a powerful keynote on the root causes of forced displacement and migration in Southern Africa.
Important Discussions and Resolutions
The conference emphasized the need to transition from refugee camps to temporary shelters, facilitating the reintegration of migrants into communities. Dr. Josephine Mauwa from the Centre de Paix Junneuf in the DRC discussed human rights abuses as root causes of migration and strategies to mitigate these challengesEdward Banda, CEO of the NGO Regulatory Authority in Malawi, stressed the importance of robust human rights policies.
Collaborative Efforts and Future Actions
Delegates called for the development of intra-regional solidarity and the creation of a Civil Society Pan-African Migration Platform. SAMIN committed to championing the rights of migrant women within immigration processes, recognizing the importance of amplifying their voices.
Acknowledgments
The conference was a success, thanks to the invaluable support of partners like CCFD and BfdW. The event provided attendees with valuable insights and knowledge on migrants’ rights, leaving a lasting impact on all participants.