Agenda 2063 is the Embodiment of African Identity says Zimbabwe Vice President Mohadi

The Vice President of Zimbabwe, H.E. Col. (Rtd) Kembo Campbel Dugish Mohadi, described Africa’s continental blueprint, Agenda 2063, as "the embodiment of all that defines our being as Africans." Vice President Mohadi delivered these remarks during his keynote address at the official opening of the 12th Annual Conference of Speakers of Africa’s National and Regional Parliaments at the Pan African Parliament (PAP) precincts in Midrand, South Africa, on Wednesday, September 18, 2024.

"On behalf of H.E. the President of Zimbabwe, who is also the SADC Chairperson, Dr. Emmerson Dambudzo Mnangagwa, and on my own behalf, it is a unique honor to address this august House on this occasion," said Mohadi, expressing gratitude for the warm reception.

Mohadi emphasized PAP’s critical role in advancing the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), a transformative institution poised to reshape the continent’s economic landscape. He called upon parliamentary leaders to guide efforts to eradicate poverty and implement policies that drive comprehensive development, stating, "Our people deserve that and much more."

He acknowledged the pressing global challenges such as climate change, rising conflicts, and strained international governance. "No country or region can tackle these challenges in isolation. We must remain vigilant to evolving geopolitical dynamics and adapt measures to provide lasting solutions," he added.

Africa’s Challenges and Opportunities

Vice President Mohadi underscored that only Africans can create the political and socio-economic environment they desire. He urged swift deployment of science, technology, and innovation to break down colonial barriers and expedite continental integration. Effective coordination of policies within Regional Economic Communities (RECs) should be prioritized in these efforts.

He stressed the importance of empowering women and youth, identifying them as a dynamic force for development. "This Parliament must advocate for increased participation of women and youth in development. We must also maximize the returns from our natural resources," Mohadi said.

Highlighting the need for Africa to assert itself in global trade and industrialization, he remarked, "Africa must rise as a competitive economic bloc. We are proud of our history in eradicating colonialism."

Referring to the African Union’s 2024 theme, "Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems," Mohadi described it as a clarion call for capacity building based on access to relevant knowledge. He urged a paradigm shift in education systems to support Africa's development, emphasizing research, innovation, and technology.

The Role of the Pan-African Parliament

The Vice President concluded by affirming that the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) is integral to realizing the "Africa We Want." He fondly recalled how Africa’s founding fathers endorsed the political relevance of PAP as a vehicle to promote the participation of African peoples in development and integration. "We have a responsibility to defend our shared values enshrined in the African Union Charter," he noted.

PAP as a Coordinating Body for African Parliaments

The Speaker of South Africa’s Parliament, Hon. Thoko Didiza, also addressed the gathering, urging PAP to position itself as a coordinating body for African parliaments in international meetings. "The Pan-African Parliament should play a leadership role," she stated.

Didiza reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment to fulfilling the Host Country Agreement, particularly in building PAP's permanent headquarters. She emphasized the importance of education, quoting Nelson Mandela’s words on the transformative power of education. She recalled that African independence leaders such as Mandela, Jomo Kenyatta, and Kwame Nkrumah recognized education as a tool for emancipation and nation-building.

Addressing the African Union’s 2024 theme, Didiza linked education to peace and development, stressing that progress in educating the continent is dependent on efforts to "silence the guns" and ensure peace and stability.

Solidarity Messages and Support for PAP

H.E. Ambassador Andre Nzapayeke, Dean of African Ambassadors in South Africa, echoed calls for PAP to receive full support from African Union Member States. He noted that PAP, after two decades of existence, has matured and deserves recognition for its role in addressing human rights, democracy, and security challenges on the continent.

Advocacy for Palestine and Global Solidarity

Ambassador Hanan N. Ameen Jarrar of Palestine highlighted the struggles faced by the Palestinian people under Israeli occupation, describing ongoing destruction of Palestinian cities and places of worship. She commended the International Court of Justice’s ruling in a case filed by South Africa, Namibia, and others, urging the UN to hold Israel accountable.

Jarrar expressed gratitude to PAP President Chief Fortune Charumbira for allowing her to address the conference, affirming Palestine's commitment to pursuing justice at the United Nations.

Closing Remarks and Call for Action

In her vote of thanks, PAP Third Vice President Hon. Lucia Passos emphasized PAP's commitment to advocating for the ratification of the Protocol on Free Movement of Persons and advancing women and youth issues. She expressed gratitude to Vice President Mohadi, Speaker Didiza, and other dignitaries for their contributions to the conference.

Passos underlined the importance of collaboration with African Union Member States' ambassadors, and she looked forward to the fruitful conclusion of the conference on Friday.