The Pan-African Parliament (PAP), the legislative organ of the African Union, today commemorates its 22nd Anniversary under the theme: “One Africa, One Voice: 22 Years of Championing the Voices of the African Citizenry.”
Established to ensure the participation of African citizens in governance and the economic integration of the continent, the Pan-African Parliament has, over the past two decades, evolved into a credible and dynamic platform for inclusive dialogue and decision-making on key continental priorities.
Marking this milestone, PAP reflects on its sustained commitment to amplifying the voices of Africans across the continent. Through continuous engagement with civil society, youth, and women’s organisations, the institution has contributed to shaping model laws and policy frameworks aligned with the aspirations of “The Africa We Want” as articulated in the African Union’s Agenda 2063.
“For 22 years, the Pan-African Parliament has remained steadfast in its mission to ensure that the voices of African citizens are not only heard but are meaningfully reflected in the policies and laws that shape our continent’s future,” said Ms. Lindiwe Khumalo, Clerk of the Pan-African Parliament.
Over the past 22 years, PAP has strengthened its role within the African Union institutional architecture through strategic collaboration with AU organs, Member States, and partners. These efforts have enhanced democratic governance, promoted peace and stability, reinforced continental solidarity, and supported the harmonisation of legislation across Africa.
The anniversary also highlights PAP’s growing contribution to parliamentary diplomacy, positioning the institution as a vital platform for advancing Africa’s collective voice in global governance and development processes.
Looking ahead, the Pan-African Parliament will host the Third Global Parliamentary Summit Against Hunger and Malnutrition in 2026, in partnership with the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO). The Summit will focus on strengthening legal and policy frameworks, fostering political dialogue, and advancing sustainable and resilient food systems across the continent.
As part of the 2026 commemorations, PAP reaffirms its unwavering commitment to the implementation of Agenda 2063 and calls upon African citizens, governments, and partners to rally behind the African Union’s Theme of the Year: “Assuring Sustainable Water Availability and Safe Sanitation Systems to Achieve the Goals of Agenda 2063.”
To mark this milestone year, the Pan-African Parliament will roll out a series of commemorative activities throughout 2026, including during its statutory meetings and through targeted engagements with stakeholder organisations across the continent. These initiatives will serve to deepen citizen participation, strengthen institutional partnerships, and further amplify the voice of Africans in shaping the continent’s development agenda.
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