African parliaments have entered a new era of sovereign equality, according to Fabakary Tombong Jatta, Speaker of the National Assembly of The Gambia and Chairperson of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Region Executive Committee.

Speaker Jatta made the remarks during his opening address at the 90th CPA Africa Region Executive Committee (EXCO) Meeting, currently taking place in Swakopmund, Namibia.

The declaration follows the successful legal transformation of the CPA, marking a significant milestone in strengthening the independence and authority of African legislatures within the Commonwealth framework.

Addressing fellow parliamentarians, Speaker Jatta urged African legislatures to evolve from being reactive to proactive, emphasizing the importance of anticipating and addressing contemporary challenges.

He highlighted pressing issues such as economic volatility, climate-induced displacement, youth unemployment, and the emerging strains on constitutional governance across the continent.

“These realities demand legislatures that oversee with rigour and engage citizens with transparency,” Speaker Jatta said, stressing that parliaments must adapt to a rapidly changing world to safeguard democratic gains and reinforce citizen trust.

The opening ceremony drew a host of dignitaries, including Hon. Lukas S. Muha, Chairperson of Namibia’s National Council, and Hon. Natalia Goagoses, Governor of the Erongo Region.

Delegates discussed strategies to strengthen parliamentary oversight, enhance citizen engagement, and bolster democratic institutions across Africa.

By Adama Makasuba