The Secretariat of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) joined the rest of the African Union and the world in commemorating Africa Day on 25 May 2022. Africa Day is commemorated annually, following the founding of the Organisation of the African Unity Unity (OAU) which was created on 25 May 1963.
This year’s Africa Day was celebrated under the theme: “Strengthening Resilience in Nutrition and Food Security on the African Continent: Strengthening Agro-Food Systems, Health and Social Protection Systems for the Acceleration of Human, Social and Economic Capital Development.”
On the occasion of a get-together, the staff of the PAP reflected on the AU shared values enshrined in the spirit of pan-Africanism. The staff were urged to promote solidarity as an engine of unity and social cohesion. In this regard, Africa Day celebration at the seat of Africa’s Parliament served as a platform to officially launch of a chain of solidarity towards recent floods victims in South Africa.
In April this year, the city of Durban and surrounding areas were affected by the worst weather storms in the history of South Africa. Over 400 lives were lost and livelihoods were destroyed. The PAP personnel have pledged to contribute, in line with the spirit of Africa Day, food necessities and other relief goods to support efforts to assist victims. Collection of necessities is underway and will be handed over to the affected parties at a later stage.
Mr. Gali Massa Harou, Acting Clerk of the PAP said that as an organ of the AU, it was important to join the entire AU family on this day to promote the values of our institution and the spirit of “One Africa, One Voice.”
“Africa Day is an important date for our continent as it allows to reflect on how far we have come and the journey towards the Africa we want. It is symbolic to use this day to launch a chain of solidarity for those who have lost their livelihoods because solidarity is what defines Africa. It is one of our core values,” said Mr. Harou.
Mr. Nadji Nasseguengar, President of the PAP Staff Association (PAPSA) conveyed the personnel’s readiness to ensure that the chain of solidarity is carried out as planned. He further highlighted the staff’s renewed commitment to work with management in achieving the objectives of the AU in line with Agenda 2063.
The PAP Secretariat was joined by the PAP Police Unit and relevant internal stakeholders as part of these celebrations.
