Madam Deputy Speaker, I have a statement on the Pan- African Parliament. Yesterday, Monday 13 November 2006, the Pan-African Parliament convened for the 6th session in Midrand in Gauteng. The first President of the democratic Republic of South Africa, former President Nelson Rolihlahla Mandela, opened the current session.
Amongst the issues he raised was the issue of good governance and the respect for human rights. The future and the deepening of peace on our continent rests firmly on the pillars of democracy, good governance, transparency and social progress. He further alluded to the fact that poverty, unemployment and the legacy of colonialism are the root causes of many of the challenges the continent is facing.
It is for that reason that the ANC will continue to work with the progressive forces on the continent to build and strengthen the institution of the African Union and Nepad, aimed at dealing with the challenges of the continent. I thank you.