Johannesburg, South Africa — Somalia’s Ambassador to South Africa, Mohamed Sheikh Issak, participated in the sixth session of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) held in Johannesburg on Tuesday, reaffirming Somalia’s commitment to continental cooperation and integration.
Amb. Issak joined delegates from across Africa in discussions focused on strengthening democratic governance, security, trade, and development across member states of the African Union.
The session is part of ongoing efforts by the Pan-African Parliament to give voice to the people of Africa and promote the principles of human rights, accountability, and good governance.
During the session, key topics included the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), climate change adaptation strategies, and the role of legislative bodies in countering extremism. Amb. Issak emphasized Somalia’s progress in state-building and highlighted the country’s strategic importance in the Horn of Africa, particularly in maritime security and regional trade.
“The Pan-African Parliament is an essential platform for amplifying African solutions to African challenges. Somalia stands ready to collaborate with fellow nations in pursuit of peace, development, and a stronger African Union,” said Amb. Issak.
The sixth ordinary session of the PAP is taking place amid growing calls for institutional reforms and greater representation of African voices in global decision-making bodies. Somalia, which continues to recover from decades of conflict, views active participation in such forums as vital to reinforcing its international presence and advocating for its developmental priorities.
Amb. Issak also held bilateral talks with several African counterparts on the sidelines of the session, exploring partnerships in education, health, and counter-terrorism.
The Pan-African Parliament, headquartered in Midrand, South Africa, functions as the legislative organ of the African Union and is composed of representatives from all 55 AU member states. Its current session will run through the end of July.