A high-level meeting was organized by Africa platform for Social Protection (APSP) for its Southern Africa Region on 24th September 2024. The online meeting brought together key stakeholders from the Southern Africa Development Committee (SADC) to share country-level experiences on the ratification of critical AU Protocols, including the AU Protocol on Social Protection and Social Security and the African Disability Protocol. The meeting also explored the role of digitalization in transforming social protection delivery across the continent.
The meeting discussions focused on the following key areas:
Experience Sharing on the Ratification of the African Disability Protocol
- Sight Savers presented insights from their "#Ratify ADP" campaign, highlighting successful ratification in Malawi, Nigeria and Zimbabwe. They shared their strategies which involved collaboration with ministries, national disability organizations, and media. Participants emphasized the importance of aligning efforts across disability, social protection, and aging protocols to maximize impact for vulnerable populations.
Status of the AU Protocol on Social Protection and Social Security:
Country updates indicated progress and challenges:
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Stakeholder engagement is ongoing in some countries, with parliamentary meetings already held.
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Election timelines and bureaucratic delays have slowed momentum in others.
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Ministries and civil society are working to align policy development and advocacy to push for full ratification and deposit of instruments with the African Union.
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Digitalization of Social Protection in Africa:
- The session highlighted both opportunities and risks in the digital shift. While digital systems can enhance efficiency, inclusion, and accountability, participants noted barriers such as the rural-urban tech divide, lack of affordable devices, and inadequate digital literacy. Emphasis was placed on user-centered design and strengthening data protection laws.
The meeting highlighted the critical interconnectedness of continental protocols and the transformative role of digital systems in enhancing social protection, particularly when implemented through inclusive and equitable approaches. Stakeholders reaffirmed their commitment to sustained advocacy, strategic collaboration, and resource-sharing to accelerate the ratification and implementation of AU protocols within the Southern Africa region.
To build on this momentum, participants recommended aligning ratification efforts across related protocols, such as those on disability, older persons, and social protection; to maximize collective impact. Strengthening partnerships with national organizations and ministries was emphasized as essential to bolstering campaign strategies. Additionally, prioritizing digital literacy and the inclusive design of social protection systems will be key to ensuring accessibility for all. Finally, the development of robust legal frameworks was advised to protect data privacy and address emerging cyber threats.
