Harare, (New Ziana) – The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) on Tuesday marked its 21st anniversary, celebrating over two decades of championing legislative harmonization and driving Africa’s collective journey toward greater unity, prosperity, and sustainable development.
With this significant milestone, the institution stands as a testament to Africa’s unwavering commitment to advancing the aspirations of its people and fostering greater cooperation across the continent.
In a statement marking the anniversary, Chief Fortune Charumbira, President of the Pan-African Parliament, emphasized that the 21-year-old institution has come of age and continues to be a powerful symbol of Africa’s progress toward integration.
“Today, as the Pan-African Parliament turns 21, we celebrate a significant milestone in our collective journey toward a more integrated and prosperous Africa that respects and upholds the aspirations of its citizenry,” said Charumbira.
Founded with the goal of promoting legislative harmonization and advocating for policies rooted in the people’s needs, PAP has been instrumental in amplifying the voices of Africans.
Over the years, the Parliament has played a pivotal role in shaping policies that align with the continent’s broad development agenda, spotlighting issues such as good governance, democratic principles, and people-driven policymaking.
Chief Charumbira reaffirmed the Parliament’s commitment to strengthening democracy, consolidating democratic institutions, and advancing inclusive development across Africa.
He reiterated PAP’s dedication to the vision outlined in Agenda 2063, which sets the roadmap for Africa’s transformation into a united, peaceful, and prosperous continent.
Under the theme “The Pan-African Parliament at 21: Advancing Legislative Harmonisation for Africa’s Development,” the institution’s anniversary celebrations highlighted its role as a critical pillar in fostering continental integration through model lawmaking, persuasive parliamentary diplomacy, and effective oversight.
Charumbira acknowledged the ongoing conflicts in the Eastern Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) and Sudan as some of the most pressing concerns facing the continent.
He called for unity, fortitude, and unwavering belief in Africa’s ability to address its challenges independently.
“The escalation of conflicts in Eastern DRC and Sudan demands unity, fortitude, and an unstinting belief in Africa’s ability to find its own solutions to its challenges,” he said.
Charumbira called on national and regional parliaments, regional economic communities, African member states, civil society, and the African citizenry to continue working hand-in-hand with PAP to build a stronger and more resilient Africa.
The Pan-African Parliament has been a key institution in creating a space where African leaders can engage in critical discussions about the continent’s future.
Its growing influence in African political affairs signals a new era of cooperation and solidarity among African nations, enabling the institution to play a significant role in shaping policies that directly impact the lives of millions across the continent.
PAP is set to remain at the forefront of Africa’s legislative, political, and developmental transformation—helping to realize the dreams of a continent that is resilient, self-reliant, and in control of its destiny.
New Ziana
