Accra: Ghana is set to host more than 300 delegates from over 30 countries for the 4th African Inter-Parliamentary Conference on Family, Sovereignty and Values, with the Speaker of Parliament declaring that the gathering will serve as a continental platform to defend Africa's cultural identity, strengthen family systems, and advance coordinated legislative action.
According to Ghana Web, Speaker of Parliament Alban Bagbin, addressing a pre-conference media briefing in Accra, emphasized the significance of the event scheduled for June 3 to June 6, 2026, at Parliament House. He highlighted that the conference comes at a time when African societies face rapid social, cultural, and ideological changes, necessitating a united stance against these challenges.
"This Conference is therefore not merely a meeting. It is a declaration. A declaration that Africa will no longer sit and remain mute or stand in silence. A declaration that we shall reclaim, protect, and project our values, not in isolation, but in dignified unity," Bagbin stated.
The decision to hold the conference at Parliament House, a symbol of Ghana's democratic resilience and Pan-African commitment, underscores the event's direct relevance to legislative leadership and policymaking, as opposed to the initially planned venue, Accra Ridge Church.
The four-day conference aims to bring together a diverse group of participants, including parliamentary speakers, members of parliament, policy experts, religious leaders, academics, civil society representatives, and development partners from across Africa and beyond.
Speaker Bagbin outlined that discussions would focus on the protection and strengthening of African family systems, preservation of cultural identity, youth development, moral leadership, and the role of parliaments in safeguarding societal values. Additionally, the impact of Artificial Intelligence and digital technologies on families and social cohesion will be a critical topic of discussion.
Bagbin expressed concern about the dual threats facing African values: cultural erosion due to globalization and the rise of xenophobia within the continent. He stressed the need for Africa to speak with one voice against these challenges to preserve the values that define the continent.
The conference will also work towards concluding the Draft African Charter on Family, Sovereignty and Values, developed through previous inter-parliamentary conferences in Entebbe, Uganda. The charter aims to articulate a collective African stance on family protection, cultural identity, and national sovereignty.
Bagbin assured that Ghana is ready to host the event, with all logistical arrangements in place. Beyond policy discussions, delegates will have the opportunity to engage in cultural activities and explore Ghana's historic sites, enhancing their appreciation of the country's democratic journey and Pan-African heritage.
He called on the media to provide accurate and balanced coverage of the conference and invited both Ghanaians and the international community to participate in this historic gathering. "Together, let us strengthen the African family, preserve our sovereignty, and uphold the values that define our continent," he concluded.