Mudenda leads SADC push for global ceasefires

Global concerns over rising insecurity dominated discussions at the 152nd Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Assembly this week, where African and SADC delegates called for stronger parliamentary action to support ceasefires and advance peacebuilding efforts.

The meetings of the African Geopolitical Group and the Southern African Development Community (SADC) Group were held in Istanbul on Tuesday as part of the ongoing IPU Assembly deliberations on major international issues.

The SADC Group meeting was chaired by Speaker of the Parliament of Zimbabwe, Jacob Mudenda, in the absence of SADC Parliamentary Forum chair Randrianasoloniaiko Thierry Siteny.

Delegates focused on the adoption of an emergency item for inclusion on the Assembly agenda, with particular emphasis on coordinated global parliamentary responses to conflict prevention and peacebuilding.

The SADC bloc ultimately supported a proposal submitted by delegations from Qatar, Australia, Türkiye, France, Brazil and Zambia titled "The urgent need for concerted Parliamentary efforts to preserve ceasefires and support peacebuilding."

The proposal was unanimously adopted, with delegates saying it aligns with the region's broader commitment to dialogue-driven conflict resolution and sustainable peace.

Founded in 1889, the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) is the global organisation of national parliaments, bringing together 183 member parliaments and 15 regional bodies to promote democracy, peace and development through legislative cooperation.

Zimbabwe's delegation, including Speaker of the Senate Mabel Chinomona and other standing delegates, is attending the session, which runs from April 14 to 19, 2026.

Officials said the discussions reflect growing recognition of the role of parliaments in preventing conflict and strengthening international stability through diplomatic engagement.