Africa-Press – Gambia. The 54th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Regional Conference has officially opened in Banjul, The Gambia, bringing together parliamentarians, legislators, and governance experts from across the continent.
The week-long event, running from 10 to 16 August 2025, features workshops, plenary sessions, and interactive discussions on parliamentary innovation, climate adaptation, economic growth, and social inclusion.
Held under the theme “Strengthening Democratic Governance and Resilience in Africa: Tackling Conflicts, Economic Shocks, and Climate Risks”, the conference underscores the pivotal role of parliaments in navigating Africa’s complex political, social, and economic landscape. It provides a platform for participants to exchange experiences, share best practices, and explore solutions to pressing challenges confronting African nations.
Delivering the keynote address, President Adama Barrow highlighted both the opportunities and threats facing the continent. While noting Africa’s vast potential for rapid development, he pointed to persistent obstacles such as political instability, poverty, and unequal development.
He stressed the central role of parliaments in safeguarding democracy, holding executives to account, enacting progressive laws, and ensuring the fair and transparent management of public resources.
“In The Gambia, my government remains firmly committed to upholding parliamentary independence and strengthening oversight institutions. We believe that a strong parliament is absolutely essential for a strong democracy, with entrenched accountability and transparent procedures protected,” he noted.
He further emphasised the importance of building economic resilience through diversification to better withstand external shocks.
Hon. Fabakary Tombong Jatta, Speaker of the National Assembly of The Gambia and President of the CPA Africa Region, welcomed delegates and described Banjul as an ideal host for this year’s conference. He commended The Gambia’s commitment to democracy, human rights, and the rule of law, portraying the country as a model of good governance.
“The CPA Africa Region plays a vital role in strengthening democratic institutions, promoting inclusive societies, and advocating the collective interest of its members on the African continent and globally,” he noted.
He said parliaments must not only safeguard constitutionalism and accountability but also anticipate the long-term needs of their societies, especially those most vulnerable.
He urged the participants to engage in robust and solutions-oriented discussions.
In her official welcome remarks, the Chairperson of the CPA Executive Committee and Speaker of the Parliament of Malawi addressed the persistent threats to peace, economic stability, and sustainable development in Africa. She underscored the unique position of parliamentarians to advance legislation and policies that reinforce democratic institutions, enhance peace and security, protect livelihoods, and build resilience to climate and economic shocks.
“It is therefore imperative that this conference serves not only as a platform for dialogue but also as a forum for shaping actionable strategies to transform our parliaments into true agents of resilient and democratic consolidation,” she said.
This year’s gathering marks a historic milestone as The Gambia hosts the CPA Africa Regional Conference for the first time.
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