The 3rd Ordinary Session of the Sixth Pan-African Parliament concluded with a powerful display of unity and discipline. H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, President of the Pan-African Parliament, applauded the unwavering dedication of Parliamentarians to the advancement and prosperity of the continent.
This remarkable showcase of cohesion and commitment unfolded in Midrand, South Africa, from 24 June to 5 July 2024 under the African Union (AU) Theme for 2024: “Educate an African fit for the 21st century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa.”
“I am delighted by the discipline we have demonstrated throughout the session leading to this day,” said H.E. Chief Charumbira during the official closing of the Session. “The way we have behaved, the sense of unity and character we have shown is amazing. With this attitude and behavior, our Parliament is destined for greater heights. Your behavior will surely drive and invite more Africans to take an interest in this Parliament. The spirit of discipline and unity is key to achieving a better Africa.”
With diligence, the Pan-African Parliament has successfully adopted its recommendations, adhering to Rule 5(b), (c), and (d) of the PAP's Rules of Procedure. This act empowers the continental Parliament to engage in robust debate, discuss, and express opinions on a wide range of issues pertaining to the AU and its organs, Regional Economic Communities, Member States, and their respective institutions. The Parliament’s ability to make recommendations and take resolutions on these matters serves as a vital mechanism for advancing the interests and goals of the African continent.
In his address to the Pan-African Parliament, H.E. Charumbira commended the body for its respectful and legalistic conduct, ensuring that the proceedings were conducted within the framework of the Parliament's established laws and regulations. He expressed delight in the harmonious nature of the debate, underscoring the importance of the ideas shared and submissions made by members.
"I am happy to report that we have not been embroiled in the kind of squabbles that can so easily plague discussions of this nature. The peace we are experiencing here today is truly extraordinary," said H.E. Charumbira.
Adopted Recommendations
Among the adopted recommendations and in line with the theme of the year, the Parliament called for the African Union Commission Department on Education, Science, Technology, and Innovation to partner with the Pan-African Parliament, specifically the Committee on Education, Tourism, Culture, and Human Resources, the member states, and other stakeholders to create awareness and advocate for sustained implementation of the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (2016 to 2025) and the education-related targets of AU Agenda 2063 as well as Sustainable Development Goal 4.
- To the African Union Member States: OWN the vision and take measures to implement the Continental Education Strategy for Africa (2016 to 2025) and the education-related targets of AU Agenda 2063 as well as Sustainable Development Goal 4.
- To the National and Regional Parliaments of the AU Member States: HARMONIZE their legal frameworks to position education as a tool for attaining all components of development.
- To Regional Economic Communities: PROMOTE alignment of Regional Education frameworks with CESA.
- To Development Partners: ALIGN support programs with CESA at continental, regional, and national levels.
The Pan-African Parliament also recommended that the African Union Commission intensify campaigns to raise awareness among policymakers, parliamentarians, civil society organizations, and the general public about the Free Movement Protocol, focusing on its objectives, principles, benefits, and addressing concerns. All in all, the following Recommendations were adopted by the Plenary:
- Recommendation on “Educate an African fit for the 21st century: Building Resilient Education Systems for increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality, and Relevant Learning in Africa.”
- Recommendation on the “Strengthening of African family values to ensure the protection and socioeconomic security of citizens.”
- Recommendation on traditional medicine.
- Recommendation on the Gambian bill aimed at reversing the ban on female genital mutilation.
- Recommendation on the Central Africa Regional Parliamentary Conference on Governance on Ratification, Domestication, and Implementation of African Union Legal Instruments.
- Recommendation on Advancing Free Movement of Persons in Africa.
- Recommendation on Peace and Security in Africa.
- Recommendation on the Zero Draft of the Revised OAU Convention for the Elimination of Mercenarism in Africa.
-Ends-
