The African continent has, since its demarcation, grappled with a wave of coups and insurgencies, with several regions struggling to combat the emergence of Islamic terrorist groups.
For decades, countries such as the Democratic Republic of Congo, Somalia, and Burundi have endured the presence of rebel groups a reality that continues to hinder their economic development.
While attending the Sixth Parliament Ordinary Session of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) in Midrand, South Africa, where members are debating the State of Peace and Security in Africa, Patrick Oshabe Nsamba emphasised that the African Union (AU) must demonstrate accountability and clearly outline the measures it has taken to end fragile and dehumanising situations in conflict-affected nations particularly the ongoing crises in Madagascar and Sudan.
He called for intensified efforts to promote dialogue, enforce ceasefires, and restore constitutional order, stressing that such interventions should not be delayed or neglected.
Keep up with the latest headlines on WhatsApp | LinkedIn
“It’s high time African parliaments acted. Innocent people have lost their lives in Darfur and Juba, and just last week during the general elections in Tanzania, hundreds of civilians protesting the manner in which elections were held were shot. What are you doing about such incidents? At what point shall our parliamentarians rise up for civilians and cause parliament to debate these occurrences?” Nsamba questioned.
On the matter of youth and the Gen Z generation, Nsamba highlighted the need to create employment opportunities and genuinely listen to young people. He noted that African youth are eager to be heard and actively participate in nation-building.
He urged the African Union to “step up its game” by recognising and responding to early indicators of unrest, particularly those arising from the frustrations and aspirations of young Africans.
The session, focusing on the State of Peace and Security in Africa, brought together parliamentarians from across the continent to deliberate on strategies for building sustainable peace and stability.
