Senegal hosts historic african parliamentary union session with panafrican vision focus

The vibrant city of Dakar is set to host a landmark gathering as the 85th Executive Committee Session of the African Parliamentary Union unfolds on June 3-4, 2026. With high-level delegates from sixteen African nations converging on the capital, this landmark event marks a pivotal moment in continental legislative collaboration. Ahead of the conference, Ousmane Sonko, President of Senegal’s National Assembly, delivered a compelling address to fellow parliamentarians, underscoring the critical importance of advancing the panafrican ideal.

In a statement that resonated with the continent’s collective aspirations, Sonko emphasized the urgent need for enhanced parliamentary cooperation across Africa. «At a time when our continent faces unprecedented challenges, strengthening parliamentary collaboration has never been more essential. I am convinced that Africa’s future must be built by Africans themselves, guided by our shared values, ambitions, and interests. I sincerely hope our discussions will propel forward the panafrican vision championed by past generations, to which we remain deeply committed», he declared.

This historic session represents the first major international parliamentary event presided over by Sonko since his overwhelming election to lead Senegal’s National Assembly on May 26, 2026. With 132 out of 133 votes in his favor, his leadership mandate received an unprecedented mandate, reflecting both national and continental confidence in his vision for legislative excellence and regional integration.

The gathering will bring together over a hundred parliamentarians—including deputies and senators—from nearly sixteen African countries. As delegates engage in strategic discussions, the focus will remain squarely on fostering unity, solidarity, and collective progress across the continent.