SADC calls for paternity leave

The protocol proposes that member states shall by 2015 enshrine gender equality in their constitutions.  It is proposes that all member states shall review, amend or repeal all discriminatory laws by 2015. The protocol calls on governments to put in place legislative provisions, which would ensure that married women have the right to choose whether to retain their nationality or acquire their spouse's nationality. Mothers would have the same rights as fathers over the nationality and citizenship of children.

Member states shall enact and enforce legislation to ensure that widows are not subjected to inhuman, humiliating or degrading treatment.  A widow automatically becomes the guardian and custodian of her children when her husband dies unless it is not in the best interests and welfare of her children.