Mpango urges practical solutions to Africa’s challenges

ARUSHA: Vice President Dr. Philip Mpango has urged African parliamentarians to exchange best practices and share country experiences to effectively address the continent’s pressing global challenges.

Speaking on Thursday at the opening of the 53rd Annual General Meeting of the Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa region, Dr. Mpango pointed out that food insecurity, climate change, and youth unemployment pose serious threats to Africa’s socio-political and economic stability.

The week -long meeting is being held in Arusha under the theme: “African Parliaments at the Forefront in Addressing Challenges of Food Insecurity, Climate Change, and Youth Unemployment’.

In his address, Dr. Mpango pointed out that legislative powers, budgetary leverage, and oversight are key tools in responding to crises impacting the continent.

He pointed out that food insecurity remains one of the most critical issues Africa faces, despite its vast agricultural potential adding that millions of people are still facing hunger.

Speaking on statistics level, Dr.Mpando revealed that it is estimated that 61 per cent of Africa’s population experiences moderate or severe food insecurity, more than double the global average of 28.6 percent.

The Vice President also highlighted the importance of peace in addressing these challenges, stating that “peace is essential”, for Africa to effectively overcome the crises it faces.

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“Peace is essential in tackling all global challenges. Together, we can overcome them and build a better Africa with no guns for future generations, as envisioned in the Agenda 2063: The Africa We Want,” he said.

He commended the Tanzanian parliament for its efforts in advocating for climate-smart agriculture, reducing conflicts over land and water resources, and promoting clean cooking energy as well as trees planting and street cleaning.

On the issue of youth unemployment, Dr. Mpango warned that frustration among Africa’s youth, due to a lack of job opportunities, has made them vulnerable to extremist propaganda and political rides.

President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU) Dr. Tulia Ackson , called for African countries to unite in addressing the continent’s shared challenges.