NEW: PAP celebrates 21 years of existence

George Maponga in Masvingo

THE Pan African Parliament (PAP) today celebrates 21 years by reaffirming its commitment to an integrated Africa and advancing the prosperity of more than 1 billion people.

The body is celebrating the milestone under the theme “The Pan African Parliament at 21: Advancing Legislative Harmonisation for Africa’s Development.”

PAP, headquartered in Midrand, South Africa, was founded on March 18, 2004.

In a commemorative statement marking 21 years of its existence, PAP president Chief Fortune Charumbira hailed the continental legislature for serving as the sonorous voice of the African people.

“Today, as the Pan African Parliament turns 21, a symbol that the institution has come of age, we celebrate a significant milestone in our collective journey towards a more integrated and prosperous Africa that respects and upholds the aspirations of its citizenry,” said Chief Charumbira.

“As we step into our 21st year of existence, we do so with renewed impetus to promote democratic principles, consolidate democratic institutions and culture, entrench people-driven policy-making, ensure good governance and promote peace, security and inclusive development on the continent in line with the aspirations of Agenda 2063.”

Chief Charumbira reaffirmed PAP’s mission to enhance continental integration through model law-making, persuasive parliamentary diplomacy and oversight.

The PAP president lamented the instability and conflict wrecking lives in Sudan and eastern DRC, which he said demands unity, fortitude and belief in Africa’s ability to find its own solutions to its challenges.

According to Chief Charumbira, it is incumbent upon national and regional parliaments, regional economic communities, Member States, civil society, and the African citizenry to continue working towards building a resilient continent.