Story by John Nhandara
AFRICA is poised to leverage South Africa’s chairing of the G20 and hosting of the 11th P20 Parliamentary Speakers’ Summit to champion best practices in legislation, oversight, and the advancement of youth, women, and gender issues.
The Pan African Parliament and the Parliament of South Africa, this Friday, held a joint meeting in Midrand ahead of the G20 and the 11th P20 parliamentary speakers summit that will be held later this year in South Africa, a first on African soil.
The joint meeting underscored Africa’s commitment to presenting a unified voice on critical global issues, impacting vulnerable populations, women and youth empowerment issues, and issues of gender equality.
“The P20 provides an opportunity to advocate for increased funding for empowerment programmes across Africa in areas such as climate change, trade, and strengthening public economies — all while promoting the full participation of women and youth in solution building,” Chairperson of the National Council Parliament of South Africa, Honourable Mtshweni Tsipane said.
“Let the work in the Pan African Parliament and our voice shape the outcome of the P20 summit. Let our leadership inspire policy, funding and global solidarity for African women and girls. The time for action is now. Gender equality is not a women’s issue, it is a societal imperative and a cornerstone of sustainable development, peace and prosperity,” South African Parliamentarian, Honourable Annelie Lotriet said.
“The P20 must commit not only to talking about youth empowerment but also to building systems that deliver in legislation, policy and budget allocations. Our priorities for the P20 must be clear,” another South African Parliamentarian, Honourable Andisiwe Kumbaca added.
Pan African Parliament President, Chief Fortune Charumbira, said the upcoming summits provide a significant opportunity for African priorities to be integrated into the global agenda.
“We are gathered to promote the road to the critical path to the ultimate gathering of heads of state in November for the G 20 summit. There have been many questions confronting PAP with regard to where the voice of the people lies. We are on the road together with everyone else to prepare and make an input into all the processes, messages, and outcomes of the G20, especially the voice of the youths.”
The P20 summit, which will be held in Cape Town, will provide an opportunity to showcase Africa’s potential, strengthen Parliamentary diplomacy and define and advance the role of African parliaments in international diplomacy while ensuring that Africa’s agendas are shared on the global stage.
