Homecoming and Commitment: Hon. Pemmy Majodina's Address at the Opening of the Pan-African Parliament's Third Statutory Sitting

South Africa’s Minister of Water Resources and Sanitation, Honorable Pemmy Majodina on Monday delivered a heartfelt welcome speech at the Opening Ceremony of the Third Statutory Sitting of the Permanent Committees of the Sixth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP). Representing the government of South Africa, Hon. Majodina, who was recently appointed as Minister by President Cyril Ramaphosa after her re-election in June 2024, received a rousing reception in what was seen as a homecoming for her.

Hon. Majodina, a former member of PAP and Chairperson of the Southern Caucus of the Parliament, expressed her excitement to return, although in a different capacity. She began by warmly welcoming the attendees, including prominent figures such as PAP President His Excellency Chief Fortune Charumbira and other distinguished officials. She highlighted her strong connection to PAP, referring to it as her "home," where she made meaningful contributions that benefitted the 1.28 billion African citizens. She encouraged the newly elected members of the PAP, including those from South Africa, to carry the torch of change for the continent.

In her address, Majodina drew attention to the AU's 2024 theme, "Educate an African Fit for the 21st Century: Building Resilient Education Systems for Increased Access to Inclusive, Lifelong, Quality and Relevant Learning in Africa." She emphasized the theme’s importance, expressing optimism for a brighter future for Africa, aligned with the aspirations of Agenda 2063. She quoted an African proverb, "A child's feet should be guided by the knowledge of its elders," highlighting the critical role of education in unlocking Africa’s potential for development.

Majodina reaffirmed South Africa’s commitment as the permanent host of PAP, recalling how the country was declared the permanent seat of the PAP by the African Union Assembly in 2004. She reassured attendees that her government would continue to provide unwavering support to PAP under the Host Country Agreement.

"Our commitment to peace and democracy on the continent is fundamental to its development. South Africa is in good hands under the leadership of the ANC within the Government of National Unity. Despite the ANC's reduced majority of 40%, we secured power in the face of potential defeat, honoring the 6.5 million voters who supported us. As the leading party in the GNU, we remain dedicated to shaping a positive future. The committee meetings serve as the engine rooms that drive the progress of the Pan-African Parliament" she said.

In closing, Majodina commended PAP President Chief Charumbira for his leadership and tireless efforts in steering the institution towards achieving its goals. She wished all new PAP members productive deliberations and emphasized her faith in their ability to address key issues affecting the African continent. Her speech concluded with a message of unity and gratitude, delivered in multiple languages to reflect Africa’s rich diversity: “Asante sana, merci beaucoup, muito obrigado, shukraan, ngiyabonga."

Her speech set the tone for a session focused on building a stronger, more resilient Africa through education, governance, and collaboration.