CPA Africa Hosts 54th Conference in The Gambia to Strengthen Governance, Democracy and Resilience in Africa

Group Photo © CPA Africa Region

By Haddy Ceesay

The Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa chapter commenced its 54th Annual Conference in The Gambia on 13th August 2025 at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre, attended by President Adama Barrow and other high-profile dignitaries from across the continent.

Hosted in The Gambia for the first time in collaboration with the Gambian government and under the leadership of the Gambia’s Speaker of the House, Honourable Fabakary Tombong Jatta, who is the current President of the CPA Africa Region, the theme for this year’s conference is “Strengthening Democracy, Governance and Resilience in Africa: Tackling Conflicts, Economic Shocks, and Climate Risks”.

The high-profile event brought together delegates from numerous African countries, including members of Parliament, National Assembly representatives, and parliamentary officials.

CPA Africa Region President Highlights Importance of Resilience

Speaking at the opening, CPA Africa Region President reiterated the Association’s mission was “to promote and protect the interests of its member parliaments and countries within and beyond the Commonwealth. Its core objectives revolve around strengthening parliamentary democracy, good governance, and human rights across the African continent.”

He underscored the role of parliaments in safeguarding democratic governance, calling on lawmakers to ensure transparency, accountability, and inclusivity. He stressed that parliaments must exercise effective oversight, especially on budget allocations in social sectors, and ensure equitable use of public resources.

Hon. Jatta also emphasised the importance of resilience, the capacity to anticipate, adapt to, and transform in the face of crises through progressive legislation, economic diversification, social safety nets, disaster preparedness, and sustainable environmental practices.

African Parliaments Should Respond with Wisdom, Courage and Unity

The Clerk of The Gambia’s National Assembly, Mr Kalipha MM Mbye, urged African parliaments to respond with “wisdom, courage, and unity” to challenges such as climate change, economic instability, and conflict.

“Let this conference be a beacon of what we can achieve together, a testament to the power of collaboration, and a renewal of our shared vision for a more resilient, peaceful, and democratic Africa,” he said, reaffirming the Assembly’s commitment to strong lawmaking, oversight, and representation.

President Barrow Calls for Intense Collective Resolve

Host for the day, Gambian President Adama Barrow, welcomed delegates and highlighted the country’s journey towards democratic consolidation, economic recovery, and climate action.

“We understand first-hand the value of robust institutions, transparent governance, and civic participation,” he said. “We are committed to fostering an environment where peace prevails, opportunities flourish, and communities are resilient to climate and economic threats.”

He pointed to annual regional and national dialogue sessions as platforms for building consensus on national and regional priorities, urging participants to use the conference as a space for knowledge-sharing and partnership-building.

President Barrow also called for “intense collective resolve”, stressing that Africa’s progress depends on democratic governance, sound policies, and peace.

A Platform for Cooperation and Action

The CPA Africa Region Conference continues to serve as a vital platform for African parliamentarians to exchange experiences, develop strategies, and forge partnerships to address shared challenges. With its focus on resilience and democratic governance, the 54th edition reinforced the CPA’s role in shaping a stronger, more united African legislative voice within the global Commonwealth.