Yaoundé hosts historic francophone parliamentary assembly with 400 delegates expected

Yaoundé is gearing up to host the 51st session of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF) in just two weeks. As preparations reach their final stages, the organizing committee—led by Deputy Hilarion Etong—has outlined key details of the landmark intercontinental event during a press briefing.

Diverse delegation set to converge for high-level discussions

The upcoming APF gathering will welcome over 300 delegates, including parliamentary leaders and young representatives. These participants hail from all four APF regions: Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. Confirmed attendees include Amelia Lakrafi, APF General Delegate, and Louise Mouchoukiwabo, Secretary-General of the International Organisation of La Francophonie. With registrations already nearing 275 participants, the event is shaping up to be a major diplomatic milestone for the host nation.

Months of meticulous planning behind the scenes

The organizing committee, established in January 2026, has been working tirelessly under the leadership of Deputy Etong, who also serves as APF President and First Vice-President of Cameroon’s National Assembly. Comprising members from both the Senate and National Assembly, the committee has established 17 specialized subcommittees to oversee every logistical and thematic aspect of the conference. Eight hotels of varying standards have been secured to accommodate attendees.

Two critical themes to shape parliamentary debates

The event’s agenda will focus on two pivotal themes: “Multilateralism and State Sovereignty” and “Francophone Parliaments Confronting Climate Change in a Shifting World.”

Under the first theme, delegates will address rising protectionism and explore ways francophone nations can strengthen collective action against terrorism, migration challenges, and democratic instability. The second theme will empower parliamentarians to advocate for robust climate policies, transforming international climate agreements into enforceable national legislation.

Key dates and program highlights

• July 7, 2026: APF Bureau meeting
• July 8, 2026: Meetings of the Youth and Women Parliamentarians Networks, followed by an excursion to Nachtigal for bureau members
• July 9, 2026: Sessions of the four permanent APF commissions
• July 10, 2026: Official opening ceremony
• July 11, 2026: Conclusion of proceedings