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AU praises Zambia on Pan-Africanism

AU praises Zambia on Pan-Africanism
By Tilyenji Mwanza and Bright Mukwasa
Sun 17 June 2012, 13:21 CAT

THE African Union Commission has praised Zambia for remaining faithful to the creed of Pan-Africanism.

During the launch of the African governance platform in Lusaka on Friday, African Union commissioner for political affairs Julia Joiner said Zambia and its people in many respects embodied and glorified the new spirit of Africa.

"As a former frontline state, Zambia has never shied away when called upon to contribute to the African agenda. In moments of tribulation and triumph, it has surged forward not simply because of the commitment and vision of its leaders, but because it has always remained faithful to the creed of Pan-Africanism," Joiner said.

"It is for this reason that the Commission deemed it fitting to convene this inaugural session of the African governance platform in Lusaka."

Joiner also said despite the impressive economic growth, Africa must not lose focus on the need to accelerate integration and deepen in unity.

"Democracy and governance can act as a catalyst to accelerate continental integration as well as provide a solid foundation for building a more prosperous Africa," she said.

She said the African governance platform would be an informal and non-decision making mechanism meant to foster exchange of information.

"We need to move away from pretence that the sensitivity of politics demands that our activities should be reactionary rather than preventive and pre-emptive."

And justice minister Sebastian Zulu said the platform would provide an avenue for member states to share information on governance challenges and good practices that could help in improving good governance across member countries.

Zulu said Zambia, with the help of donors, had been making efforts to increase transparency and accountability in policy and decision-making in the government.

He said there was political will in driving the reforms in the country.

Labels: AU, PANAFRICANISM

posted by MrK @ 2:03 PM