PAP President Charumbira’s Visit to Mozambique Highlights Trade, Diplomacy, and Traditional Leadership

The President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, concluded a three-day official visit to the Republic of Mozambique with a series of engagements that underscored the Parliament’s growing role in advancing Africa’s integration agenda, strengthening diplomatic synergies, and recognizing the vital place of traditional leadership in governance.

From championing free trade at the Maputo International Fair to holding strategic talks with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and addressing Mozambican traditional leaders, Chief Charumbira’s visit showcased the diverse but interconnected priorities of the continental legislature in building “The Africa We Want.”

Promoting Trade and Economic Diversification at FACIM 2025

The PAP President capped his mission with a visit to the 60th edition of the Maputo International Fair (FACIM 2025), taking place from 25 to 31 August at the Ricatla International Fair and Exhibition Centre in Marracuene, about 30 kilometers from Maputo.

The fair, held under the theme “Promoting Economic Diversification towards Sustainable and Competitive Development in Mozambique”, brought together more than 800 foreign exhibitors from 30 countries, reaffirming Mozambique’s position as a hub for trade and investment in Southern Africa.

Chief Charumbira, accompanied by his delegation, was welcomed by Mozambique’s Minister of Economy, H.E. Basílio Muhate, and the Secretary of State for Commerce, H.E. Antonio Grispos. He used the occasion to reinforce the Pan-African Parliament’s continued advocacy for the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and the free movement of people, two flagship projects of the African Union (AU).

“Economic diversification and intra-African trade are not just policy goals. They are real opportunities to create jobs, strengthen industries, and reduce Africa’s dependence on external markets,” he stated, urging national parliaments to ratify and domesticate AfCFTA instruments.

By linking Mozambique’s efforts to diversify its economy with the AU’s broader vision, the PAP President demonstrated how local initiatives such as FACIM can serve as engines for continental integration.

Building Diplomatic Synergies with Mozambique’s Foreign Affairs Ministry

During his stay, Chief Charumbira also led the PAP delegation in high-level discussions with Mrs. Maria Fatima Manso, Secretary of State for Foreign Affairs and Mozambican Communities Abroad. The meeting focused on strengthening partnerships between Mozambique and the Pan-African Parliament in support of governance, institutional reform, and resource mobilization.

The delegation emphasized that a stronger, more empowered PAP is essential to balance AU decision-making, provide oversight to the executive branch, and ensure that citizens’ voices are represented in continental policy. Chief Charumbira highlighted the institution’s recent progress in restoring stability and credibility, following years of operational challenges.

Particular recognition was given to Mozambique’s delegation in the PAP, led by Hon. Aires Bonifácio Baptista Ali, Deputy Chairperson of the Southern Caucus and former Prime Minister of Mozambique. Their role in building unity and consensus within the Parliament was commended.

Discussions also addressed PAP’s budgetary and staffing constraints. Chief Charumbira appealed for Mozambique’s advocacy within the AU Executive Council and the Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC) to ensure adequate funding for the Parliament.

The PAP delegation further lauded Mozambique’s Political Commitment for an Inclusive Dialogue, an initiative designed to foster constitutional and political reforms in response to the October 2024 post-election unrest. Chief Charumbira praised the dialogue as a model of participatory governance that could inspire other African nations.

Engaging Traditional Leaders on Governance and Cultural Values

Adding a cultural and symbolic dimension to his visit, Chief Charumbira met with Mozambican traditional leaders at the Council Palace in Maputo at the invitation of the Secretary of State for the City, Hon. Vicente Joaquim.

As both a legislator and a traditional leader in Zimbabwe, currently serving as Deputy President of the Chiefs’ Council, Chief Charumbira spoke with authority on the role of traditional institutions in Africa’s governance architecture. He emphasized that tribal authorities, as custodians of culture and values, remain vital partners in addressing poverty, homelessness, and illiteracy, while also promoting peace and good governance.

“Traditional leaders are auxiliaries of government and crucial allies in advancing the African Union agenda. Their legitimacy at the grassroots makes them indispensable in shaping a democratic and inclusive Africa,” he said.

The engagement was preceded by a tree-planting ceremony at the seat of Maputo’s Council, symbolizing growth, unity, and sustainability.

A Visit Framing Mozambique as a Strategic Partner in Africa’s Integration

Across trade, diplomacy, and traditional leadership, Chief Charumbira’s visit underscored Mozambique’s strategic role in advancing Africa’s integration agenda. His engagements demonstrated the Pan-African Parliament’s multidimensional mandate, linking economics with governance, diplomacy with culture, and policy with people.

The visit leaves behind a renewed sense of partnership, not only between PAP and Mozambique but also between the Pan-African Parliament and African citizens whose aspirations for development, peace, and unity continue to guide the continent’s journey toward “The Africa We Want.”