Angola’s National Assembly Speaker, Carolina Cerqueira, is leading a delegation to Zambia for the 56th Assembly of the SADC Parliamentary Forum, taking place from December 9 to 15.
A key highlight of the event is the launch of the Regional Parliamentary Alliance on Agro-food Systems, Food Security, and Nutrition, organised in collaboration with the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). Cerqueira reaffirmed Angola’s commitment to promoting food and nutritional security in Southern Africa, emphasising the region’s agricultural potential and the need for innovative solutions to eliminate hunger and poverty.
During the assembly, Angola will work with other SADC countries to enhance training, exchange experiences, and establish frameworks that align with the Sustainable Development Goals and post-Malabo priorities. Cerqueira stressed that food security is critical to national and regional stability, urging parliaments to develop inclusive legislative processes and foster open debates with civil society and governments. These efforts aim to bolster Southern Africa’s capacity to meet the nutritional needs of its populations sustainably.
The forum, themed “Harnessing Technology and Innovation to Promote Inclusive and Caring Smart Parliaments in the SADC Region,”will also explore modernising parliamentary processes. Cerqueira noted Angola’s progress in transforming its parliamentary structure, including digitising operations to enhance inclusivity and efficiency. The discussions will address socio-political and economic issues, with a focus on adopting the Model Law on the Eradication of Early Marriage and the Protection of Children in such unions.
The Angolan delegation includes deputies Pedro Sebastião, Ruth Mendes, Teresa Neto, and Diamantino Mussokola. With topics ranging from food security to legislative advancements, the forum presents an opportunity for Angola to share its vision and collaborate on regional challenges, promoting sustainable development and human rights across Southern Africa.
Further Africa
