BY ANDREW DLAMINI
MBABANE – Minister of Home Affairs Princess Lindiwe, played a pivotal role in the recent Inter-Regional Consultation on Managing Mixed and Irregular Migration along the Southern and Western Indian Ocean Routes, held in Lusaka, Zambia from the 20th to the 22nd of November.
The primary objective of the gathering was to address the complex challenges associated with migration and seek collaborative solutions among participating nations.
According to the Ministry of Home Affairs Princess Lindiwe presented the Outcome Document Recommendations report, outlining crucial strategies and measures aimed at managing mixed and irregular migration effectively. The report underscored the need for coordinated efforts, emphasizing cooperation and shared responsibilities among the participating nations.
The minister stressed the significance of collective action in managing migration.
“It is imperative for our nations to work together to address the complexities of migration. By fostering collaboration and implementing sustainable policies, we can create a safer and more orderly environment for migrants and our communities,” she said.
The consultation brought together nine ministers from member state countries, including Zambia, Malawi, the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Mozambique, South Africa, Somalia, and the Kingdom of Eswatini.
During the discussions, ministers engaged in constructive dialogue, exchanging insights and experiences to develop comprehensive approaches for tackling migration challenges in the region. Key focal points included enhancing border management, strengthening legal frameworks, promoting migrant integration, and addressing the root causes of irregular migration. Human rights and humanitarian assistance for migrants in vulnerable situations were also highlighted.
The consultation concluded with a consensus on the adoption of the Outcome Document Recommendations, marking a significant step towards fostering regional cooperation in managing migration. Participating ministers expressed their commitment to implementing the proposed measures and pledged to continue collaborating on addressing migration challenges in the Southern and Western Indian Ocean regions.
