by Tendai Guvamombe
The Sixth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament’s Fourth Ordinary Session is currently underway in Midrand, South Africa, from October 28 to November 15, 2024. The opening ceremony, held on November 4, 2024, was presided over by H.E. Chief Fortune Zephaniah Charumbira, President of the Pan-African Parliament ¹.
The ceremony was attended by high-level dignitaries, including H.E. Igor Sergeyenko, Chairman of the House of Representatives of the National Assembly of Belarus, who served as the Guest of Honor. Other notable attendees included Dr. Louis-Georges Tin, Prime Minister of the SOAD Parliament; H.E. Roger Mancienne, Speaker of the Southern African Development Community; Hon. Remy Ngoy Lumbu, Chairperson of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights; and Hon. Anna Thandi Moraka, Deputy Minister of International Relations and Co-operation, Republic of South Africa.
In his remarks, H.E. Igor Sergeyenko emphasized the National Assembly of the Republic of Belarus’s readiness to cooperate closely with the Pan-African Parliament. He praised the parliament’s efforts to implement Agenda 2063, an ambitious and inspiring initiative aimed at resolving vital issues in regional development ¹.
“The African continent is becoming a new center of power,” Sergeyenko noted. “We understand that the strength of nations lies not in capital, military power, or ambitions, but in true values, the desire for justice, and faith in oneself.” These words echo the sentiments of the head of the Belarusian State, highlighting the importance of cooperation and shared values in achieving regional development.
The Fourth Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament is themed “Educating an Africa Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Success in Inclusive, Quality, and Relevant Lifelong Learning in Africa” ². This session aims to discuss strategies for strengthening education systems across the continent, making them more resilient and inclusive.
The Pan-African Parliament’s efforts to promote education, cooperation, and development are crucial in achieving the goals outlined in Agenda 2063. As the session continues, attendees will engage in discussions and deliberations aimed at shaping the future of Africa.
Key Highlights of the Session:
- Pre-Session Preparatory Meetings: Held from October 28 to November 3, 2024
- Fourth Ordinary Session: Runs from November 4 to 15, 2024
- Post-Session Meetings: Scheduled for November 16 to 17, 2024
- Theme: “Educating an Africa Fit for the 21st Century”
Stay updated on the latest developments from the Pan-African Parliament’s Fourth Ordinary Session.
