Pan-African Parliament Advances Work on Model Law for Sustainable Soil Management in Africa

The Pan-African Parliament (PAP), through its Committee on Rural Economy, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, has intensified efforts to establish a continent-wide legislative framework on sustainable soil management. In partnership with the Development and Rule of Law Programme (DROP) of Stellenbosch University, the Committee convened a high-level technical consultative meeting from 27 to 29 April 2025 at the Wallenberg Conference Centre, Stellenbosch Institute for Advanced Study (STIAS), South Africa.

The meeting brought together leading experts, policymakers, and stakeholders from across Africa to review the draft Model Law on Sustainable Soil Management in Africa. The event also marked the official launch of the publication Legal Pathways to Sustainable Soil Management in Africa: Insights from Botswana, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Kenya, Madagascar, Morocco, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Uganda, and Zambia, edited by Oliver C. Ruppel, Harald Ginzky, and Ruda Murray, and published by Nomos Law Publishers in 2025.

The draft Model Law is the result of extensive research and consultation across all five regions of the continent. It seeks to harmonize Africa’s diverse legal systems and environmental contexts while addressing socio-economic disparities. Key principles embedded in the draft include sustainability, prevention, precaution, social justice, gender equality, accountability, transparency, and public participation. Importantly, the model framework incorporates indigenous knowledge systems and traditional practices, recognizing the vital role of local communities and customary leaders in managing soil resources responsibly.

Once adopted, the Model Law will serve as a guiding instrument for African Union Member States, aiding in the development and strengthening of national legislation and policies related to soil health and land governance. It aims to enhance regulatory standards for sustainable land use, ensure long-term food security, and bolster climate resilience.

Addressing participants at the opening session, Hon. Garry Sakata, Chairperson of the Committee on Rural Economy, Agriculture, Environment and Natural Resources, emphasized the strategic role of the PAP:

“The Pan-African Parliament is uniquely positioned to lead this initiative. Our objective is to create an enabling legal framework that can guide national efforts and unify the continent’s approach to sustainable soil management.”

The consultative meeting marks a critical step in the legislative process. The draft Model Law will be submitted for initial deliberation during the upcoming plenary session of the Pan-African Parliament. Thereafter, it will undergo further regional consultations with stakeholders to ensure its alignment with local contexts and priorities.

This initiative reflects Africa’s growing commitment to environmental protection, sustainable development, and effective natural resource governance.