Source:tolonradio.com/Baba Issahaq Mohammed/Zainab Lansah
Rt. Hon. Alban Sumana Kingsford Bagbin, Speaker of Parliament, has issued a rallying call for African nations to unite under the principles of Pan-Africanism to strengthen democracy, ensure political stability, and promote sustainable development.
Speaking at the First Ordinary Session of Côte d’Ivoire’s National Assembly for the year, Speaker Bagbin emphasized the need for African legislators to work collaboratively in addressing critical challenges such as terrorism, conflicts within the West African sub-region, and the pressing impacts of climate change.
Joined by five other Speakers of National Parliaments from Senegal, Benin, Togo, Nigeria, and the ECOWAS Parliament, the event demonstrated a shared commitment to using parliamentary diplomacy and dialogue as tools to advance African unity. The host, H.E. Adama Bictogo, President of Côte d’Ivoire’s National Assembly, welcomed these esteemed representatives in a symbolic gathering aimed at fostering cooperation across African borders.
Speaker Bagbin highlighted the importance of solidarity among African nations, particularly in a time when regional stability is frequently undermined by terrorism and political unrest. He stressed that legislative collaboration is essential to finding sustainable solutions to these challenges and advancing the collective goals of the continent.
Accompanying Speaker Bagbin to the session was a delegation that included his spouse, Madam Linda Ofosuah Oboh; Members of Parliament such as Hon. Habib Iddrisu, Hon. Dorcas Toffey, and Hon. Dr. Sebastian Sandaare; as well as parliamentary staff.
In addition to political and security issues, Speaker Bagbin urged African leaders to prioritize the fight against climate change. He argued that a united approach to environmental challenges could not only safeguard the continent’s future but also position Africa as a leader in sustainable development on the global stage.
The gathering in Côte d’Ivoire served as a clear reminder of the enduring value of Pan-Africanism as a guiding principle. Speaker Bagbin’s call to action resonated with the overarching vision of a unified Africa—one that thrives on democratic governance, peace, and prosperity.
