Highlights from Intervention by H.E. Hon. Safia Elmi Djibril (Djibouti); Focusing on the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Early Commitment and Leadership - Highlighted Djibouti’s early signing of the Convention on April 14, 2024-25, with plans to ratify it in the next parliamentary session: “Djibouti is one of the early countries... We would like to encourage other countries to follow suit.” On Concrete National Action and Impact - Shared Djibouti’s experience establishing a specialized unit for victims of gender-based violence in 2007, staffed by volunteer lawyers, medical professionals, and psychologists. - Reported a 50% reduction in gender-based violence since the unit’s creation and related laws were enacted: “Gender-based violence has reduced in our country by half.” Empowerment and Call to Action - Urged women to take charge of their own destiny and actively intervene through parliamentary action to achieve real change: “Women need to take strict action and intervene at the level of our parliaments to accomplish outcomes.” - Noted the strong legal framework in Djibouti, including updates to the Family and Penal Codes addressing gender-based violence. - Emphasized the growing respect and fear men have toward empowered women who seek justice. #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #CEDAW #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

Highlights from Intervention by Hon. Khadija Arouhal (Morocco); Focusing on the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls From Words to Action: A New Momentum - Expressed optimism about the Pan-African Parliament’s shift from discussion to concrete legislation: “We are moving from just talking and defending African women in discussions, now into formulating laws that would really protect women.” - Congratulated the African Parliament for its active involvement in advancing protective legislation since the Convention’s adoption in February 2025. On Commending Collective Efforts - Praised interventions by male and female MPs and the African Union’s commitment to addressing violence against women. - Acknowledged the important work of the Gender Committee, including discussions on the model law for gender equality and equity. Call for Unity and Progress - Highlighted the partnership between women and men in the Parliament as a model for Africa’s progress toward equality and equity: “The African Parliament is really working for all African countries, women and men, as an example to follow.” #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #CEDAW #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

Highlights from Intervention by Hon. Halo Mohamed Ibrahim (Djibouti); Focusing on the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls On Championing Inclusion for Women and Girls with Disabilities - The speaker praised the earlier presentations and the Caucus Chairperson, emphasizing the urgent need to address the specific challenges faced by women and girls with disabilities. “Women and girls with special needs face additional hurdles daily. We need to understand and support them fully.” On Inclusive Gender Policies - Stressed the importance of integrating participative gender approaches that consider disabilities in policy-making. - Highlighted that existing laws and conventions are insufficient without enhanced protection measures. A Push for Enhanced Protection “Laws and conventions exist, but we need to step up the protection of these women who daily face discrimination.” On Prioritizing Support for Women and Girls with Disabilities “Let us not exclude women and girls with special needs; their inclusion is vital to achieving true gender equality.” #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #CEDAW #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

Highlights from Intervention from Hon. Senator Stukie Motsa (Eswatini); Focusing on the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls Representing Women with Disabilities - Welcomed the Convention as a “unique” and transformative milestone, emphasizing that she had the opportunity to contribute directly to its drafting—on behalf of African women with disabilities. “This convention closes all the gaps that were there in other legislations and conventions dealing with women’s issues.” Key Achievements of the Convention - Addresses legal, psychosocial, and cultural dimensions of violence. - Recognizes and condemns violence rooted in cultural practices. - Specifically includes the needs of women and girls with disabilities. “This convention recognizes that women and girls with disabilities face multiple forms of vulnerability and the risk of violence.” Hon. Senator Stukie Motsa concluded with an appeal to all Member States: “I urge Member States to ratify and domesticate this convention—it is not just a legal obligation but a moral one as well.” #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #CEDAW #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

Key Highlights from the Intervention by Hon. Sakata Tawab Garry (DRC), Focusing on Balancing Women’s Rights and Cultural Identity On Defending Women’s Rights and Human Rights - Affirmed commitment to women’s rights: “The Pan-African Parliament has been a protector of the rights of women and girls.” Recognized prior contributions emphasizing human rights and ending violence against women. On Challenges of Western Legal Frameworks - Raised concern about the applicability of imported legal systems: “Our system of protection often transposes rules from Western official documents, which may not always fit our realities.” - Questioned the consistency and relevance of current legal frameworks in the African context. On Harmonizing Emancipation with African Culture - Asked a critical question about cultural preservation: “How can we reconcile emancipation of women and girls in Africa, their freedom and their rights, without losing sight of the originality of our cultures?” - Highlighted a gap in the debate regarding cultural identity in women’s rights discussions. Call to Reflection: Toward an African-Centered Approach “This question invites us to rethink how African values and traditions can coexist with advancing women’s rights and freedoms.” #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

Hon. Fama Ba (Senegal) made an impassioned plea for stronger protections for African women and urgent legal reforms to end systemic injustices: “African women must raise their voices against injustice and violence. The Pan-African Parliament must be the first place where we solve our problems.” - She highlighted discriminatory parental authority laws that undermine women’s rights: “As a woman, I cannot travel with my own child without the father’s permission. This is not normal—it harms children and disempowers mothers.” - Calling for unity and respect, she reminded male colleagues of their responsibility: “Dear uncles, dear brothers, dear fathers—we are your daughters, your wives, your nieces. You should protect us, not harm us. Without women, the world would be nothing.” Closing Message: “To build a sovereign and famous Africa, we must respect women—with dignity and sovereignty.” #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

“This Convention is not just a legal instrument—it is a tool for dignity, equity, and leadership.” — Hon. Amina Tidjani Yaya On Tuesday, 29 July 2025, Hon. Amina Tidjani Yaya (Chad), Chair of the Women’s Caucus at the Pan-African Parliament, delivered a bold and comprehensive statement in support of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, calling it a decisive stride for justice across Africa. Why this Convention matters: - Anchored in the Maputo Protocol, Agenda 2063, and the AU Gender Equality framework - Recognizes violence in all spheres: conflict zones, political life, digital spaces, and private life - Demands ratification, implementation, and resources at national and regional levels Six Strategic Commitments by the Women’s Caucus: i. Parliamentary Mobilization: Leverage PAP’s influence to push for ratification & domestication across all member states ii. Model Law on Gender Equality: Develop a regional legal tool aligned with AU and global standards iii. Political Violence & Online Abuse: Name and combat gender-based violence in political spaces and digital platforms iv. Gender-Responsive Budgeting: Demand funding mechanisms for survivor support, prevention, and justice v. Pan-African Observatory: Monitor implementation, create an African Gender Index, and reward progress vi. Education as Prevention: Focus on girls’ education, especially in rural areas, and ensure inclusivity for students with disabilities “From grassroots to parliaments, from civil society to the digital frontier—no woman or girl should be left behind.” Looking Ahead: - Push for five institutionalized days of action against GBV - Coordinate with national and international partners to advance inclusive reforms - Translate the continental vision into national law and community action - Strengthen AU's frameworks with real accountability, data, and public engagement “Putting an end to violence is not a woman’s duty—it is a leadership and justice imperative.” The Women’s Caucus is leading from the front—advocating not just for policy, but for bold, structural transformation. Let us stand with them. Ratify. Resource. Reform. Now. #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

"Justice must move beyond words and become reality." — Amb. Liberata Mulamula On Tuesday, 29 July 2025, the @_AfricanUnion Special Envoy on Women, Peace and Security, Amb. Liberata Mulamula, addressed the Pan-African Parliament, delivering a rousing call for justice, reparations, and swift ratification of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls. Why is this Convention a continental milestone? - It is the first binding legal framework dedicated solely to ending violence against women and girls in Africa. - It reframes GBV from a private issue to a public crime undermining peace, dignity, and development. - It obligates states to prevent violence, protect survivors, prosecute perpetrators, and provide reparations. Grounded in African Realities and Women's Leadership: i. Speaks to survivors in conflict zones, girls facing child marriage, and silenced voices ii. Recognizes women as leaders, mediators, and peacebuilders iii. Challenges harmful practices like FGM and online abuse iv. Calls for structural change and whole-of-society mobilization Amb. Mulamula tied the Convention to the African Union’s 2025 Theme on Justice and Reparations and the upcoming Africa Women’s Day (31 July), reminding MPs of women’s role in liberation and peace. Status Update: - 6 countries have signed the Convention 0 have ratified – 15 ratifications are required to enter into force - “From Wadi Sababa to every village, town, and capital in Africa—this Convention must be felt.” — Amb. Mulamula Call to Action: - Ratify and domesticate the Convention now - Fund implementation and survivor support services - Hold institutions accountable for results “When we fail to protect women, we fail society. When we fail to protect girls, we fail the future.” Let this Parliament be remembered as the one that said: “Enough is enough.” Let justice begin here. One Africa. One voice. #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

"Let us act with urgency and unity!" — Hon. Janet Sallah Nje, Commissioner at @achpr_cadhp On Tuesday, 29 July 2025, the Vice Chairperson of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Women in Africa addressed Members of the Pan-African Parliament on the new AU Convention on the Elimination of Violence Against Women and Girls, calling it “a historic and transformative milestone.” Why is this Convention vital? - It is the first stand-alone AU treaty solely focused on ending violence against women and girls. - It strengthens and complements the Maputo Protocol with clearer obligations and stronger enforcement mechanisms. - It addresses violence in homes, schools, workplaces, conflict zones, and digital spaces—leaving no context untouched. Anchored by a Survivor-Centered, Rights-Based Approach: i. Legal clarity and broad definitions of all forms of violence ii. State obligations to prevent, protect, prosecute, and provide redress iii. Recognition of intersectional vulnerabilities—including disability, age, displacement iv. A ban on all cultural, religious, or traditional justifications for violence Hon. Sallah Nje emphasized the pivotal role of the African Commission in advocacy, monitoring, and interpretation. She called for a whole-of-system response, engaging the Pan-African Parliament, African Court, and CSOs to build a strong accountability ecosystem. Status Update (as of July 2025): - 6 AU Member States have signed, but none have ratified. The Convention requires 15 ratifications to enter into force. “This is not a symbolic commitment—this is a legally enforceable shield for women and girls across Africa.” — Hon. Sallah Nje - As Special Rapporteur, she urged MPs to champion ratification, align domestic laws, mobilize national dialogues, and ensure oversight and dedicated resources. The time to act is now. Parliamentarians, be the voice of change. #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EndVAW #GenderEquality #WomensRights #16DaysOfActivism #MaputoProtocol #Africa #AUCYPA #GEWE

“A Turning Point for Africa!” — Ms. Lindiwe Mugabe On Tuesday, 29 July 2025, the Program Specialist on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls at the African Union Commission, presented before PAP MPs, the New AU Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, adopted on 16 February 2024 during the 38th AU Heads of State Summit. What makes this Convention historic? - It goes beyond the Maputo Protocol, addressing violence in both public and private spaces, and during peace, conflict, disasters, displacement, and post-evacuation. - It recognizes violence as a systemic, human rights violation, deeply rooted in historic inequalities and power imbalances. Guided by Four Strong Pillars: i. Prevention – laws, public education & campaigns ii. Protection – support for survivors & safe spaces iii. Prosecution – expedited and fair justice iv. Policy – coordination between governments, CSOs, and justice systems Ms. Mugabe emphasized the multisectoral approach, calling on governments, civil society, cultural and religious institutions to act collectively. The Convention also promotes positive masculinity, centers African values, and includes protections for vulnerable women and girls—especially those with disabilities, the elderly, displaced, and child workers. On Access to Justice: - The Convention demands non-discriminatory, timely legal processes, protection of victims and witnesses, and accountability for perpetrators. Article 40 mandates reporting to the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights, with interpretation handled by the Commission or referred to the African Court. Ratification Status: Signed by 8 countries so far: Djibouti, Angola, Burundi, Liberia, and others. Still needs 15 ratifications to enter into force. “This instrument is comprehensive, African-led, and long overdue. It provides real tools to stop violence and build safer societies for women and girls across the continent,” Ms. Mugabe concluded. The AUC is now on an outreach and awareness campaign. Support is needed to resource and fast-track ratification. Parliamentarians, policymakers, and civil society—let’s unite for ratification and give this Convention the power to protect millions. #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #GenderEquality #PeaceAndSecurity #YearOfReparations #JusticeMatters #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant

Key Highlights from the Intervention by Hon. Dr. Awoke Amzaye Assoma (Ethiopia), in response to @APRMorg Synthesis Report on Early Warning for Conflict Prevention in Africa On Misconceptions and the Nile River Dispute - Addressed widespread misconceptions surrounding the Nile River, emphasizing that Ethiopia and Egypt do not share borders and therefore have no territorial conflict. - Highlighted that the Nile is a shared resource among 11 riparian countries, with each having the right to equitable use. On Colonial Agreements and Historical Injustice - Criticized outdated colonial-era agreements (1906, 1910, and the 1950s) between #Britain, #Egypt, and Anglo-Egyptian #Sudan, which allocated full rights to Nile water usage to Egypt—excluding Ethiopia entirely. - Asserted Ethiopia’s right to utilize the Nile as a natural resource, in accordance with modern international norms and principles of equitable use. On the GERD and Equitable Resource Use - Referenced the completion of the Grand Ethiopian Renaissance Dam (GERD) as a key milestone in #Ethiopia’s right to use its water resources for development. - Called for equitable sharing of the Nile among all riparian states, especially Egypt and Sudan, to ensure regional cooperation and avoid conflict. On the Role of African Institutions - Urged the African Union and the Pan-African Parliament to help relegate colonial-era treaties that continue to generate tension. - Advocated for new multilateral agreements rooted in fairness and cooperation among the 11 Nile Basin countries. Concluded that equitable use of the #Nile is the path forward, and that with mutual recognition of rights, no conflict is necessary. #PAP #APRM #GovernanceMatters #PanAfricanParliament #AfricanUnion #Transparency #Accountability #Democracy #Agenda2063 #InstitutionBuilding #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #EarlyWarningSystems

Key highlights from the intervention by Hon. Newton Samakayi (Zambia) — Member of the Pan-African Parliament during the debate on financing the African Union focusing on African agency, and economic self-reliance. “Sixty years after independence, we must stop blaming colonialists. It’s shameful.” “We have failed to take control of our natural resources—and that is the root cause.” “Africa has enough population and resources to trade among ourselves and sustain our economies.” “If I hear us blaming colonialism again, I’ll walk out—we are not serious.” -Rejected the continued use of colonial legacy as an excuse for Africa’s underdevelopment, asserting that the real failure lies in the mismanagement of natural resources. -Urged the continent to take control of its wealth—minerals, timber, water, and land—that are still being exported cheaply to former colonial powers. -Highlighted that Africa's large population provides a strong foundation for intra-African trade, which remains underutilized. Trade, Responsibility & Reform: -Called for greater urgency in establishing African self-reliance and economic sovereignty. -Criticized austerity measures that create inefficiencies, as seen in the current operations of the Pan-African Parliament. -Expressed deep frustration with Africa’s stagnation, urging leaders to act boldly and decisively for the continent’s future. #Zambia #PanAfricanParliament #FifthOrdinarySession #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #YearOfReparations

Fifth Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament of the Pan African Parliament in Pictures #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament

Historic Partnership for Good Governance in Africa! On 21 July 2025, the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) and @APRMorg signed a landmark Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) at PAP’s headquarters in Midrand, South Africa, marking a new era of strategic collaboration to advance transparency, democracy, and accountability across the continent. This transformative agreement enables joint country assessments, legislative support, and capacity-building initiatives, ensuring governance reforms translate into real, positive change for African citizens. APRM CEO, Amb. Marie-Antoinette Rose-Quatre, hailed the signing as “a historic milestone,” reaffirming that this alliance will help drive meaningful policy reforms and foster institutional resilience. PAP President, H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, said the MoU “turns words into action,” placing parliaments at the heart of governance oversight and reform. The agreement supports Agenda 2063 and includes a joint action plan focused on country reviews, technical support, and policy alignment—laying the groundwork for concrete, people-centered outcomes across Africa. Together, these sister organs under African Union will strive to shape a future where governance serves the people, rights are upheld, and Africa’s aspirations for peace, justice, and prosperity become reality. More: pap.au.int/en/news/press-rel… #PanAfricanParliament #APRM #GovernanceMatters #PanAfricanParliament #AfricanUnion #Transparency #Accountability #Democracy #Agenda2063 #InstitutionBuilding #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant

📸🇪🇭🇿🇦 | Given the platform to give a statement to the Pan-African Parliament at the opening session of the Fifth Session of the Sixth Parliament is Hon. Hamma Salama, Speaker of the Saharawi National Council of Western Sahara. The Saharawi National Council, serves as the legislative body of the Saharawi Arab Democratic Republic (SADR). #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant

Powerful moment at PAP! With Hon. Anseline Beukes @LPMNamibia - @IPCNamibia two different parties, ONE NAMIBIA. Her beautiful Nama dress represents our authentic heritage on the continental stage. #PAP2025 #UnityInDiversity #NamibianPride #PAPOrdinarySession #TheYearOfReparations #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament

Our CEO, @nardosbthomas will deliver a message of solidarity at the Fifth Ordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament. This isn’t just a message—it’s a reminder that Africa moves forward when its institutions walk in sync. 🛠️ We’re the engine room of the African Union, where infrastructure, agriculture, health, and innovation projects take root and take off. 📜 On the other, the Pan-African Parliament (PAP): the conscience of the continent, where democracy, accountability, and policy harmonisation are given voice. Together, we form a dynamic duo—one implementing, one overseeing, both united in delivering Agenda 2063, the African Union’s vision for a prosperous, peaceful, and integrated continent. As 2025 unfolds under the banner of the Year of Reparations, this partnership embodies what it means to build sustainably, inclusively, and with purpose. #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #AUDA_NEPAD #Agenda2063 #AfricaWeWant #YearOfReparations #UnityInAction #DevelopmentWithPurpose

The opening ceremony of the 5th Ordinary of the Sixth Parliament will be officiated by the President of the Pan-African Parliament, H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira. The ceremony is being live-streamed right here. Stay tuned! #PAPOrdinarySession #TheYearOfReparations #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament

Representing Namibia at the Pan-African Parliament….A Personal and Political Journey I am deeply honored to represent Namibia and the Independent Patriots for Change (IPC) at the Fifth Ordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, South Africa. As a descendant of the Nama-Herero genocide, this appointment is more than political duty it is a profound personal responsibility. The 2025 African Union theme “Justice for Africans and Persons of African Descent Through Reparations” isn’t just diplomatic language; it’s the echo of my ancestors’ unresolved pain and our collective call for justice. My Focus Areas… 🔹 Ensuring AfCFTA isn’t just another acronym—making continental free trade truly inclusive and impactful for marginalized communities. 🔹 Transforming trade justice into reparative justice, acknowledging and addressing historical inequalities. 🔹 Amplifying indigenous voices, not as token participation, but as genuine contributors to continental policy. As Shadow Minister of International Relations and Trade, I don’t just speak from policy briefs, I speak from lived experience. Namibia’s recent AfCFTA export was a first step, but unless we get SMEs involved, our job isn’t done. Continental integration is not charity it is overdue justice. It’s about rewriting old wrongs and opening economic doors that colonialism shut. Our history demands it….our future depends on it. #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament #YearOfReparations #Agenda2063

The Pan-African Parliament is pleased to announce that opening the ceremony of the 5th Ordinary Session of its Sixth Legislature (PAP) will take place tomorrow, 21 July 2025, at 08:30 AM SAST, at the seat of the Pan-African Parliament in Midrand, South Africa. The Ordinary Session, which commences tomorrow, will be held under the African Union Theme of the Year for 2025: “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent through Reparations,” and will run until 31 July 2025. The opening ceremony will be officiated by the President of the Pan-African Parliament, H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira. The event will feature a keynote address by the Guest of Honour, H.E Professor Miguel Cesar Domingos Bembe, Ambassador of Angola in Ethiopia and Chairperson of the African Union Permanent Representatives Committee (PRC), among other addresses by distinguished guests. The ceremony will be live-streamed right here. Stay tuned! #PAPOrdinarySession #TheYearOfReparations #FifthOrdinarySession #PanAfricanParliament