House Chair, the ACDP notes that social media and civil society have questioned whether resources truly reach vulnerable communities, particularly women in rural areas.
The department’s core mandate is monitoring, evaluation, research, and coordination, yet it seems to be largely failing in this regard; perhaps lacking analytical software and information. And we note underspending on critical programmes while overspending on administration.
Women are the backbone of our families and communities, as the ACDP has consistently stated, and too often they put their husbands, children and others first, whilst their own needs remain unheard, apparently—to a large degree—also by this department.
In the ACDP’s submission to the Youth Parliament earlier this year, we stressed that empowerment must begin with dignity and recognition of women’s sacrifices, and while we commend initiatives that promote women’s entrepreneurship and leadership, we lament the slow pace of implementation of excellent ideas. The Committee’s recommendations urge stronger accountability and targeted funding for women’s programmes, which the ACDP supports.
As Kingdom-builders, unashamedly and unapologetically founded on a biblical foundation, the ACDP draws from the wisdom and strength of many women in the Bible: of Deborah, Rahab, Ruth, Esther and Mary, the mother of Jesus. We know all too well that when we place the nation’s women at the centre of our priorities, women rise, families thrive, and the nation prospers.
I thank you.
