By Mohammed Hadebbe
The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) President, H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, delivered a significant address at the official opening of the National Assembly of Benin in Porto Novo, Benin. The event coincided with the African Union’s (AU) Theme of the Year, “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
Historical Context and Reparations
President Charumbira highlighted Benin’s complex history, particularly the northern region’s notorious role as the “Slave Coast of West Africa” during the transatlantic slave trade. He emphasized the need for reparations, citing the Abuja Declaration on Reparations (1993), which acknowledged a “unique and unprecedented moral debt owed to the peoples of Africa.” The PAP President stressed that the fight for reparations seeks economic justice, truth, and recognition of systemic inequities perpetuated against Africans and people of African descent.
Agenda 2063 and Flagship Projects
Beyond reparations, Charumbira emphasized the importance of implementing Agenda 2063, Africa’s development blueprint for inclusive and sustainable socio-economic growth. He urged the National Assembly of Benin to drive the attainment of this agenda and AU Flagship Projects, including:
- Integrated High-Speed Train Network: Enhancing continental connectivity and trade
- African Commodities Strategy: Promoting Africa’s economic growth through strategic commodity management
- Grand Inga Dam Project: Harnessing Africa’s hydroelectric potential
- Single African Air Transport Market: Liberalizing air transport and promoting economic integration
- Great African Museum: Celebrating Africa’s rich cultural heritage
Role of National Parliaments
Charumbira emphasized the crucial role national parliaments, like Benin’s, play in overseeing the implementation of Agenda 2063 and AU Flagship Projects. He encouraged parliamentarians to:
- Hold the Executive Accountable: Ensure commitments made at regional and continental levels are implemented
- Articulate Economic Priorities: Reflect current socio-economic realities in constituencies and foster human capital development
- Promote Investment: Create incentives for economic growth and poverty reduction
Collaboration and Next Steps
The PAP President expressed readiness to collaborate with the National Assembly of Benin to develop stronger frameworks for enhancing Agenda 2063’s impact. By working together, they can ensure people-centered development principles are reflected in National Development Plans. This partnership aims to drive Benin’s progress and contribute to the broader African Union vision of “An integrated, prosperous, and peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens.”
