Lawmakers from across Africa have taken a bold step toward protecting the continent’s identity and independence. Members of Parliament from 29 countries gathered in Entebbe, Uganda, for the 3rd African Regional Inter-Parliamentary Conference, where they finalized a draft of the African Charter on Family, Sovereignty, and Values. This important document aims to address growing global challenges that threaten Africa’s cultural heritage and self-determination.

The three-day meeting brought together parliamentarians, policy experts, and civil society leaders to discuss pressing issues facing African nations. Key topics included protecting traditional family structures, defending regional sovereignty, and preserving African values in the face of increasing foreign influence. The conference highlighted the urgent need for African countries to work together to secure their future.

Uganda’s Deputy Speaker of Parliament, Thomas Tayebwa, set the tone for the discussions by urging African nations to take control of their resources and reduce dependence on foreign powers. He emphasized the importance of boosting trade within Africa and improving the movement of people across borders.

“African countries must focus on regional trade to strengthen our economies,” Tayebwa said. “Agriculture should be a priority because it contributes significantly to our national incomes.”

One major challenge identified during the conference was the lack of a common language across Africa. Micheal Kakembo, the Member of Parliament for Entebbe Municipality, proposed that Swahili should become the continent’s shared language.

“Without a unified language, Western culture fills the gap and influences our societies,” Kakembo explained. His suggestion sparked discussions about how language can unite African nations and protect their unique identities.

A recurring theme throughout the conference was the need for Africa to reduce its reliance on foreign funding. Lawmakers agreed that depending on donor money makes African countries vulnerable to external pressure. Instead, they resolved to develop independent financing models that would allow African nations to make decisions without outside interference.

“We must find our own sources of funding to maintain our sovereignty and uphold our values,” the parliamentarians declared. This resolution reflects a growing determination among African leaders to take charge of their economic and political future.

Sarah Opendi, Chairperson of the African Inter-Parliamentary Conference and Woman MP for Tororo District, presented the zero draft of the African Charter on Family, Sovereignty, and Values. She described the document as a crucial tool for safeguarding Africa’s cultural heritage and independence.

“This draft represents our shared commitment to protecting what makes Africa unique,” Opendi said. “It is about preserving our families, our sovereignty, and our way of life.”

The charter received approval from the conference attendees and will now be sent to national parliaments for further discussion. Once reviewed, it is expected to be adopted at the next summit. The document provides a framework for African countries to work together on issues like cultural preservation, economic resilience, and continental unity.

The resolutions passed at the conference mark a significant moment in Africa’s efforts to respond to global challenges. With foreign cultural and economic influences growing stronger, African leaders are increasingly aware of the need to protect their traditions and decision-making power. The proposed charter is a step toward creating a united front against these pressures.

As the conference concluded, participants expressed optimism about the future. The discussions in Entebbe showed that African nations are ready to collaborate more closely, not just in words but through concrete actions. The charter, once finalized, could become a cornerstone of Africa’s strategy to maintain its identity in an interconnected world.

The next phase of the process will involve national parliaments examining the draft charter and providing feedback. Lawmakers will need to engage with their communities to ensure the document reflects the needs and values of ordinary Africans.

If successful, the charter could lead to stronger policies on cultural preservation, economic cooperation, and political independence across the continent. For now, the conference in Entebbe has set the stage for what could be a transformative moment in Africa’s history—one where the continent takes firm control of its destiny.

The message from African leaders is clear: the time has come to stand together, protect what is uniquely African, and build a future defined by unity and self-reliance.