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✒ SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security
The SADC Standby Force operates as a tool of the SADC Organ on Politics, Defence and Security
Cooperation which is operationalised by the SADC Protocol on Politics, Defence and Security
signed in 2001. The protocol was ratified and entered into force on 2 March 2004, providing an
institutional framework through which Member States coordinate policies and activities in this area.

✒ Regional Peacekeeping Training Centre
The SADC Regional Peacekeeping Training Centre (RPTC) was established in 2003 to provide
training for peace support missions in the region and for joint operations with other parts of
Africa. The RPTC plays a key role in the implementation of the SADC Standby Force by providing
peacekeeping training for military, police and civilian components, and has participated in the
preparation and running of all major peacekeeping exercises conducted in the region. The
RPTC also conducts capacity-building courses for regional and national mediation to strengthen
domestic mediation capacities in SADC Member States.

✒ Strategic Planning
The Strategic Indicative Plan for the Organ on Politics, Defence and Security Cooperation (SIPO)
was developed to operationalise the Protocol, based on the objectives and common agenda of
SADC. The first strategic plan, SIPO I, was signed in 2004 resulting in more concerted action within
the various sectors and officials. The mutual knowledge derived from greater familiarisation with
the operations of the institutions of each Member State as a result of this interaction has led to an
ever-increasing relationship of trust. SIPO is now included in the regional strategic plan, the RISDP
2020-2030 as an integral part of regional planning.
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✒ Mutual Defence
A Mutual Defence Pact was signed in 2003 and entered into force on 17 August 2008.

✒ Policing
Policing the borders in the SADC region is an important element in peace and security, in
coordination with the Southern African Regional Police Chiefs Cooperation Organisation
(SARPCCO), for the prevention of crimes such as vehicle theft, illegal arms, and Trafficking in Persons.

✒ Women, Peace and Security
SADC has developed a regional framework that serves as a guide for mainstreaming gender
into the regional peace and security systems and processes. The SADC Regional Strategy on
Women, Peace and Security (2018-2022) aims to address challenges experienced by women
and children by ensuring full participation and access to their skills in peace and security
activities, programmes and projects. The strategy is a key policy tool to support the
implementation of the UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1325 in the region.