Parliament says it requires about K400 million to host next month’s 55th Commonwealth Parliamentary Association (CPA) Africa Region Conference and Annual General Meeting.
Speaker of Parliament and CPA Africa Region president Sameer Suleman disclosed the funding gap during a press briefing in Lilongwe yesterday, saying the conference budget is estimated at between K800 million and K900 million.
He said the CPA has contributed £25 000 while China recently donated $20 000 towards the event.
enhance our capacity.
| Nation
The conference, scheduled for August 9 to 16 at the Bingu International Convention Centre in Lilongwe, is expected to attract over 300 delegates, including 13 Speakers of Parliament from across Africa.
Suleman described the meeting as one of the continent’s premier parliamentary gatherings, saying Malawi’s selection to host the event reflects confidence in the country’s Parliament.
To be held under the theme ‘Renewing the social contract: Parliaments as catalysts for inclusive growth and citizen trust,’ the conference will focus on democratic governance, legislative effectiveness, parliamentary oversight, peace, sustainable development and regional cooperation.
Suleman said the theme aligns with Malawi 2063, highlighting Parliament’s role in promoting accountable leadership, effective institutions, inclusive governance and citizen participation.
He said: “Hosting the conference will enhance the capacity of legislators and parliamentary staff.
“It will also strengthen cooperation with sister parliaments across Africa, promote the exchange of best practices.”
The CPA, established in 1911, is an international organisation that promotes parliamentary democracy, good governance and human rights across the Commonwealth.
