By Mohammed Hadebbe
The Pan African Parliament (PAP) has reaffirmed its commitment to advancing the economic development and integration of the African continent. In his address at the ongoing Fourth Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament, President H.E. Chief Fortune Zephania Charumbira outlined the institution’s mandate and recent achievements.
Established in 2004, the PAP aims to ensure full participation of African peoples in the continent’s economic development and integration. Its mandate, as outlined in Article 3 of the Protocol to the Treaty Establishing the African Economic Community, includes promoting human rights and democracy, encouraging good governance, and facilitating cooperation among Regional Economic Communities.
President Charumbira highlighted the PAP’s recent efforts to strengthen its role in continental governance. On October 22, 2024, he led a delegation to meet with Kenyan President William Ruto, discussing AU institutional reforms and the PAP’s role. Key issues raised included the need for legislative powers, direct reporting to the Assembly, and adequate funding for committees.
Despite resource constraints, the PAP Bureau and Committees have been working diligently to implement activities stalled since 2019. Recent initiatives include:
- Joint technical meetings with the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights
- Participation in the UN Summit of the Future
- Advocacy missions for protocol ratification
- Joint colloquia on economic, social, and cultural rights
- Workshops on model laws and trade initiatives
President Charumbira emphasized the importance of enhancing the PAP’s oversight and representative mandate, promoting vocational education, and strengthening continental solidarity.
The PAP’s efforts come amidst ongoing AU institutional reforms. As the continent’s premier legislative body, the PAP is poised to play a crucial role in shaping Africa’s future.
“We must strengthen our institution to effectively serve the African people,” President Charumbira stressed.
As the Fourth Ordinary Session continues, the PAP is expected to address key challenges, including limited legislative powers, inadequate funding, and lack of recognition.
With its renewed commitment to advancing the continent’s development, the Pan African Parliament remains a vital force in Africa’s pursuit of economic integration and prosperity.
