6–8 July 2026, Sharm El Sheikh, Egypt.
The Electoral Commissions Forum of SADC (ECF-SADC) and its member commissions are participating at the above continental activities hosted by Egypt’s National Elections Authority in collaboration with the African Union and the European Centre for Electoral Support ( ECES) .This year’s forum brings together election management bodies, regional organizations, development partners and electoral experts from across Africa to discuss “African Diaspora Voting: Progress, Gaps and Prospects.”, providing a platform for participants to exchange experiences and identify practical approaches to strengthening the participation of African citizens living abroad in democratic processes. Discussions focused on the legal, operational and institutional dimensions of out-of-country voting, as well as the opportunities and challenges associated with implementing inclusive and transparent diaspora voting systems.
ECF-SADC as a key regional player in the AU Forum of EMBs was given an opportunity to facilitate a session which examined the financial and logistical challenges of implementing diaspora voting. The session featured experience-sharing from Election Management Bodies in Senegal, Namibia, DRC and Egypt, highlighting practical solutions, sustainability considerations and lessons learned in delivering credible electoral services beyond national borders.
The AAEA 13th General Assembly proceeded with discussion of policy matters of the AAEA , report by AAEA President ( Chairperson of the Electoral Commission of Ghana ) on year under review , adoption of financial statements , presentation of regional reports, presentation by the African Union representative on technical assistance to Election Management Bodies .
ECF-SADC’s participation underscores its continued commitment to promoting democratic governance, peer learning and collaboration among Election Management Bodies across the SADC region and the African continent. The forum is expected to conclude with the adoption of a communiqué outlining key recommendations and a roadmap for advancing inclusive electoral participation of African citizens living in diaspora.
