Sostenus Wilherm
Namibia’s delegation to the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) has commenced participation in the sittings of the Permanent Committees ahead of the First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Parliament, which is set to begin on 27 July 2026 in Midrand, South Africa.
The delegation, led by Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly Phillipus Katamelo, includes Rodney Cloete, Olivia Hanghuwo, Tjimutambo Kuuoko and Alpheus !Naruseb.
The Permanent Committee sittings started today and will continue until 25 July 2026, as members prepare for the opening of the new parliamentary session.
According to the National Assembly, the participation of the Namibian delegation demonstrates the country’s continued commitment to continental parliamentary engagement and cooperation within the African Union framework.
The National Assembly confirmed that Namibia’s participation in the Pan-African Parliament provides an important platform for the country to contribute to discussions on matters affecting the African continent.
The committee meetings form part of preparations for the First Ordinary Session of the Seventh Parliament and will focus on discussions, deliberations and reviews of matters falling under the mandate of the various PAP committees.
The National Assembly further highlighted the importance of Namibia’s involvement in continental structures, saying such platforms allow lawmakers to exchange ideas, strengthen partnerships and contribute towards addressing challenges affecting African communities.
The engagement of Namibian parliamentarians in these forums strengthens cooperation among African states and allows Namibia’s perspectives to be represented in continental decision-making processes.
The Pan-African Parliament, established as an organ of the African Union, provides a platform for representatives from AU member states to discuss issues affecting the continent, including governance, development, peace and security, economic integration and social advancement.
The Permanent Committees play a key role in the PAP’s work by examining specific thematic areas and preparing recommendations that guide parliamentary discussions and decisions.
Katamelo and the Namibian delegation are expected to participate in various committee engagements leading up to the official commencement of the Seventh Parliament’s first ordinary session.
The session will bring together parliamentarians from across Africa to deliberate on issues aimed at advancing the objectives of the African Union and promoting greater cooperation among member states.
Namibia’s delegation to the PAP continues to represent the country’s interests and contribute to continental efforts aimed at strengthening democratic governance as well as sustainable development across Africa.
