MIDRAND (South Africa) — The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) convened the 12th Annual Conference of Speakers of National and Regional Parliaments from September 18 to 20, 2024, at its headquarters in Midrand, South Africa. This high-level event aligned with the African Union’s 2024 theme: “Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century.”
Held alongside the Sitting of the Permanent Committees, the conference brought together Presiding Officers of African legislatures. Together, leaders focused on aligning efforts in education, peace, trade, and continental integration.
Pan-African Parliament Focuses on Education in Africa
First and foremost, the conference prioritized transforming Africa’s education systems. Parliamentarians explored strategies to build resilient, inclusive, and lifelong learning opportunities throughout the continent.
During his keynote address, Hon. Kembo Dugish Campbell Mohadi, Vice President of Zimbabwe, emphasized the urgent need to deploy science, technology, and innovation to break free from colonial legacies. Moreover, he highlighted the importance of empowering women and youth as vital to Africa’s future.
“Africa must rise as a competitive economic bloc. We are proud of our history and ready to shape our future,” said Hon. Mohadi.
Pan-African Parliament Strengthens Parliamentary Coordination
Meanwhile, H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, President of the Pan-African Parliament, called for stronger coordination among African legislatures. He emphasized the crucial role of parliamentarians in confronting peace and security threats, food insecurity, and the climate crisis.
“Your presence here shows our shared commitment to solving Africa’s most pressing challenges,” he told the assembled Speakers.
In addition, Charumbira stressed the urgency of ratifying AU treaties and advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) through supportive legislation and policy reforms.
South Africa Reaffirms Its Support
On a related note, Hon. Thoko Didiza, Speaker of the South African National Assembly, reaffirmed South Africa’s full commitment to the Host Country Agreement. She advocated for the Pan-African Parliament to receive a permanent seat in the country.
“The Pan-African Parliament is a critical body to address peace, security, and integration,” Didiza stated.
Ultimately, the conference reinforced the Parliament’s position as a key driver of continental unity, parliamentary diplomacy, and Africa’s development agenda.
Key Topics Covered at Pan-African Parliament Annual Speakers’ Conference
Speakers and experts delivered updates on several key issues:
- AU 2024 Theme Implementation:
Dr. Reginah Mhaule, Deputy Minister of Basic Education in South Africa, shared insights on the country’s progress toward education reform. - AfCFTA Implementation:
H.E. Wamkele Mene, Secretary-General of the AfCFTA Secretariat, urged parliaments to build enabling legislative and policy environments. - Agenda 2063 Progress:
Ms. Botho Kebabonye Bayendi from the AU Commission provided an update on Africa’s strategic development goals. - Health Resilience:
Dr. Lul Reik, Africa CDC Regional Coordinator, highlighted Africa’s pandemic preparedness. - Climate Change in Africa:
Mr. Charles Peter Mwangi Nyambura of the Pan-African Climate Justice Alliance (PACJA) spoke about the impact of climate change on African development. - AU Reforms:
Professor Pierre Moukoko Mbondjo, Head of the AU Reform Unit, discussed institutional reforms and their effect on governance.
Strengthening Inter-Parliamentary Cooperation
According to Article 18 of the Sirte Protocol, the Pan-African Parliament collaborates closely with national and regional parliaments. Over the years, the annual conference has evolved into a key platform for promoting African Union legal and policy instruments, particularly those focused on human rights, governance, and constitutionalism.
In addition, the forum fosters dialogue on aligning national legislation with AU standards, thereby enhancing cooperation across the continent’s legislative bodies.
Looking Ahead: Transforming Africa Through Unity
As the conference drew to a close, delegates expressed a renewed commitment to advancing African integration and sustainable development. Moving forward, Speakers pledged to translate parliamentary resolutions into concrete action.
Through education, diplomacy, and trade facilitation, they aim to build a more unified and resilient Africa. Ultimately, the 12th Annual Conference set the tone for stronger legislative coordination in addressing the continent’s shared challenges and opportunities.
African Union: AU takes steps to address Education Challenges in Africa in 37th AU Summit
