Parliament, Saturday, 1 August 2026 – The Speaker of the National Assembly, Ms Thoko Didiza, has called for stronger parliamentary cooperation to advance Africa’s Agenda 2063 when she spoke at the opening of the 26th Conference of Speakers of National and Regional Parliaments currently held under the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) umbrella in Midrand.
Welcoming delegates to the conference, the Speaker reaffirmed South Africa's steadfast support for the PAP. She said: “Parliamentary diplomacy is an essential tool for building trust, strengthening peace and advancing Africa's shared future."
She congratulated the newly elected Bureau of the PAP and highlighted the institution's unique role as the democratic voice of Africa’s people and a pillar of accountability within the African Union.
The Speaker emphasised that parliamentary diplomacy strengthens dialogue, promotes legislative cooperation and enables African parliaments to develop common solutions to shared continental challenges including migration, peacebuilding, democratic governance and sustainable development.
She called for greater collaboration among national, regional and continental parliaments, increased participation of women and youth in parliamentary diplomacy, and stronger coordination between regional parliamentary bodies and the PAP.
Furthermore, she called for enhanced alignment of Africa's parliamentary engagement within global institutions, including the Inter-Parliamentary Union; and continued efforts towards strengthening the PAP as Africa's premier continental legislative institution.
Reaffirming that Africa's greatest strength lies in learning from one another, the Speaker encouraged parliamentary leaders to transform dialogue into collective action that delivers tangible benefits for the continent and its people. The Conference of Speakers of National and Regional Parliaments is continuing today at the PAP seat in Midrand.
ISSUED BY PARLIAMENT OF THE REPUBLIC OF SOUTH AFRICA
Enquiries: Moloto Mothapo, Parliament Spokesperson
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