The Pan-African Parliament (PAP) and the State of the African Diaspora (SOAD) have a partnership to strengthen ties between the African continent and its diaspora.
A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed at PAP’s headquarters in Midrand, South Africa, sets the foundation for collaboration in promoting peace, development, and unity.
This agreement outlines several areas of focus, including the organisation of an Africa-Diaspora Summit, the creation of a permanent African Diaspora Desk within the Pan-African Parliament, and regular participation of SOAD in PAP’s sessions.
Other initiatives include the joint celebration of African Diaspora Day and collaborative efforts to raise funds for programmes that benefit African communities worldwide. Both organisations have committed to reviewing their goals regularly to adapt to emerging challenges.
Under the terms of the MoU, PAP and SOAD aim to work closely on various projects, sharing knowledge, conducting research, and advocating for African and diaspora issues. Activities will include public awareness campaigns, partnerships with international organisations, and participation in key meetings. The collaboration will be evaluated annually to ensure it remains effective and aligned with its objectives.
To achieve these goals, a joint Plan of Action will guide specific activities and programmes. Both parties emphasised the need for careful resource management and equitable allocation of funds. They will engage in joint fundraising efforts and ensure their initiatives are streamlined to avoid duplication.
The agreement also prioritises communication and public engagement. PAP and SOAD will work together to raise awareness about their partnership and its goals through media platforms. Confidentiality and intellectual property protocols will be observed to maintain the integrity of their collaboration.
H.E. Chief Fortune Charumbira, President of the Pan-African Parliament, reflecting on this milestone, said:
“We are looking forward to a progressive working relationship for the betterment of the livelihoods of Africans across the globe. It is high time that Africans everywhere come together for a better cause.”
Dr Louis-Georges Tin, Prime Minister of SOAD, described the event as “a truly historic moment that bridges the African continent with its diaspora in unprecedented ways.”
