PAP, Afrobarometer sign MoU

George Maponga in MIDRAND,South Africa

The Pan African Parliament(PAP) and Afrobarometer have this afternoon signed a landmark MoU which is expected to help the continental legislature to influence its debates and policies using proven and accurate data.

The MoU was signed in the PAP presidential officed at the continental legislature’s seat in Midrand.

Chief Fortune Charumbira the PAP president hailed the signing of the MoU saying the continental legislature’s alliance with Afrobarometer will help determine Africa’s pulse especially on issues to do with socio-economic development.

The PAP president noted that among other things the marriage with Afrobarometer will enhance the continental legislature’s oversight and advocacy through role through citizen-focussed evidence.

“As the legislative arm of the AU,PAP holds a unique responsibility to represent the people of Africa, to stengthen democratic institutions and to advocate for inclusive development across the continent. To fulfill this mandate our actions must be guided by accurate data, honest insights and the lived experience of the citizens we represent,”he said.

“Afrobarometer with its renowned public opinion surveys across more than 30 African countries, provides precisely that. It captures the pulse of our nations- the aspirations, concerns and expectations of our people.”

According to Chief Charumbira, Afrobarometer offered a mirror that help to reflect the continent’s strides in areas such as governance, human rights,economic perfomance and public service delivery among other issues.

The MoU is also an opportunity to help PAP legislators to debate critically while also fostering a culture of accounyability and and transparency across Africa’s governance landscape.

Afrobarometer Director of Surveys Dr Boniface Dulani hailed the signing of the MoU saying his institution will help identify the priorities of citizens on the continent for PAP’s attention.

Dr Dulani noted that PAP’s capacity to respond to the wishes and aspirations of African citizens will be greatly enhanced by tackling evidence-based priorities and issues.