On Tuesday, 13th May 2026, the Vice-Chairperson of the Women’s Parliamentary Caucus of the National Assembly of Seychelles, Hon. Denise Clarisse participated in the SADC Parliamentary Forum Regional Women’s Parliamentary Caucus (RWPC) virtual session.
The session was held ahead of the 59th Plenary Assembly and focused on the theme, ‘Women Parliamentarians’ Leadership on Climate Change and the Blue Economy: An Ocean of Opportunity.’ Proceedings began with the consideration of minutes from previous meetings, including updates on resolutions and actions taken from the last RWPC meeting, particularly in relation to legal frameworks and regional commitments.
Throughout the session, Members from across the region engaged in discussions on women’s advocacy in financial decision-making roles, gender-responsive climate initiatives, and the need for Parliamentarians to scrutinise climate policies to ensure that they are inclusive of vulnerable groups. Presentations were also delivered on climate change, the blue economy, and the strengthening of SADC Women Parliamentarians’ leadership in promoting climate-resilient blue economy action.
A key area of focus was the contribution of women within the blue economy, particularly in areas such as food processing and skills development. The session further highlighted the importance of strengthening parliamentary oversight and accountability to ensure that climate and blue economy policies are both inclusive and responsive to the needs of women and communities.
During the meeting, Members also voted in the new leadership of the RWPC, with Eswatini elected to the Chairpersonship and Namibia elected to the Vice-Chairpersonship.
Hon. Clarisse described the session as both enriching and inspiring, noting that the discussions reinforced the importance of women parliamentarians in shaping inclusive climate and blue economy policies. She further expressed her hope to bring forward the insights gathered during the session within the Seychelles context.
