Without oversight and accountability mechanisms w ith adequate authority, gender equality work can stall once mechanisms are established and may fade from the legislative agenda. The presence of sound accountability and oversight that involves reporting to the highest possible level of government maximises the opportunity for gender mainstreaming initiatives to be successful and sustainable, and for gender equality to remain a legislative priority. This requires sound policy co-ordination (vertical and horizontal) and collaboration mechanisms, which are also noted as important enablers for gender mainstreaming.