Addis Ababa:The Second African Political Parties Summit concluded today with the adoption of the Addis Ababa Declaration, which sets forth a framework for enhancing political leadership, democratic governance, and the role of political parties in Africa's economic transformation.
According to Ethiopian News Agency, the declaration emphasizes the importance of deliberate political choices, capable public institutions, and sustained investments for Africa's economic transformation. It recognizes political parties as vital in shaping national policies, preparing leaders for public office, and steering the continent's long-term development.
A key achievement of the summit was the adoption of the Charter of the African Political Parties Initiative (APPI) on November 6, establishing its governing framework, institutional organs, and leadership within the Africa Governance Centre (AGC). The summit also endorsed the inaugural APPI Bureau Leadership for a three-year term, marking the commencement of the initiative's institutional transition under the new Charter.
Delegates agreed to initiate an inclusive continental consultation to develop APPI Agenda 2040, which aims to outline shared aspirations and development priorities for Africa's transformation. This agenda is expected to complement the African Union's Agenda 2063 by translating continental development goals into political programs and sustained commitments.
The declaration calls on political parties to promote policies supporting industrialization, investment, technological advancement, and job creation, specifically in manufacturing, agro-processing, and digital industries. It also commits parties to support the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) and improve infrastructure and connectivity across the continent.
Additionally, the declaration stresses Africa's sovereign right to manage its natural resources, urging for domestic value addition and stronger capital markets. It advocates for fairer international economic partnerships and enhanced access to technology and finance.
On governance, the declaration reaffirms commitments to constitutionalism, democratic accountability, and political pluralism, rejecting unconstitutional changes of government. It emphasizes the need for professional, effective public institutions and greater investment in education and youth employment.
The summit agreed to enhance political education and leadership development through the Council of African Political Party Schools and Institutes (CAPPSI) and the Political Academy for Transformational Leadership (PATL). The declaration acknowledges Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed's support for PATL and Ethiopia's leadership training for political parties across Africa.
The APPI Bureau Leadership is tasked with facilitating the implementation of the declaration and sharing best practices among member parties. The declaration concludes by reaffirming the collective responsibility of African political parties to strengthen institutions and pursue the prosperity of African peoples, while expressing gratitude to Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed and the Ethiopian Government for hosting the summit.
