Midrand, South Africa – Yesterday, the Sixth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) commenced its proceedings with an auspicious opening ceremony graced by the esteemed presence of International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister, Ms. Candith Mashego-Dlamini. The event, held on May 15, 2023, marked the beginning of the Second Ordinary Session and set the stage for crucial discussions on the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA).
The opening ceremony was inaugurated by the President of Comoros, H.E Azzali Assoumani, symbolizing the collective commitment of African nations towards fostering regional cooperation and integration. In her role as the Deputy Minister, Ms. Candith Mashego-Dlamini delivered a noteworthy address, emphasizing the significance of the event and its alignment with the African Union’s theme for the year.
Running from May 15 to June 2, 2023, the Second Ordinary Session of the Sixth Parliament will focus on accelerating the implementation of the AfCFTA. This year’s African Union theme, “Year of AfCFTA: Acceleration of the African Continental Free Trade Area Implementation,” highlights the pivotal role that the AfCFTA plays in promoting economic growth, sustainable development, and intra-African trade.
The Pan-African Parliament serves as a vital platform for African parliamentarians to address regional challenges, deliberate on key issues, and propose effective solutions. By convening representatives from across the continent, the Parliament aims to foster dialogue, cooperation, and collaboration among African nations.
The opening of the Sixth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament not only signifies the commitment of African nations towards strengthening continental unity but also underscores the shared determination to actualize the immense potential of the AfCFTA. As discussions unfold during this session, it is expected that important policy measures and strategies will be devised to accelerate the implementation of the AfCFTA, thereby boosting economic growth and furthering the integration of African economies.
With the active participation of Deputy Minister Candith Mashego-Dlamini and other distinguished delegates, the Sixth Parliament of the Pan-African Parliament promises to be a crucial platform for advancing the African Union’s vision of a prosperous, integrated, and united Africa.
 commenced its proceedings with an auspicious opening ceremony graced by the esteemed presence of International Relations and Cooperation Deputy Minister, Ms. Candith Mashego-Dlamini.){kind=link}