The second day of the 19th Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) began with delegates convening for their first general meeting, focusing on strengthening the financial sustainability of parliamentary cooperation across Africa.
A key agenda item was the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Region Five-Star Hotel Project in Dodoma, Tanzania – a strategic investment first approved in 2019 to generate sustainable income, reduce reliance on membership subscriptions, and support parliamentary programmes.
Mr Enos K. Asiimwe, CPA Africa Region Treasurer and Chairperson of the Fundraising Task Team, reported notable progress, including land acquisition through the Tanzanian government’s support. However, the project faces a funding shortfall of approximately US$6.65 million.
To close this gap, member parliaments were urged to contribute around US$350,000 each. Ms Refilwe Mtsweni-Tsipane, Chairperson of the CSPOC Africa Region Standing Committee and South Africa’s National Council of Provinces, reminded delegates of the collective endorsement of the initiative and encouraged renewed commitment.
The proposal received broad support, with delegates highlighting its potential to establish a self-sustaining financial model for the region. Yet, concerns were raised about affordability, governance and implementation timelines. Kenyan Senator Veronica Maina emphasised the need for countries to review their legal and financial frameworks before committing funds, while other representatives called for clarity on funding mechanisms and equitable benefits for member states.
The hotel project reflects a wider trend in the CPA’s efforts to diversify income streams and strengthen institutional independence.
Similar initiatives in other Commonwealth regions have sought to balance financial sustainability with transparency and accountability. For Africa, the Dodoma project is seen not only as a commercial venture but also as a symbol of regional unity and long-term vision. Delegates agreed that updated information would be circulated to member parliaments for further consideration, ensuring that decisions are informed and inclusive.
The next CSPOC Africa Region Conference, scheduled for May 2027 in Kenya, will provide an opportunity to revisit the project’s progress and assess collective commitments. The deliberations underscore Africa’s determination to build resilient parliamentary institutions capable of sustaining themselves while advancing democratic governance.
Nzondelelo Mazule, Thato Phala
18 June 2026
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