Accra: Dr. Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, the newly elected Second Vice President of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP), has called for renewed efforts to educate South Africa's younger generation about the sacrifices made by other African countries during the anti-apartheid struggle.
According to Ghana News Agency, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings emphasized the urgency of this initiative due to renewed concerns over xenophobic attacks targeting African nationals in South Africa. Speaking to journalists at Kotoka International Airport on Thursday during her arrival, she described these attacks as unfortunate incidents and highlighted the solidarity shown by countries like Ghana in the fight against South Africa's colonization.
Ghana, along with many other African nations, played a significant role in supporting the anti-apartheid movement through logistical, financial, diplomatic, and even travel document assistance to South Africans involved in the liberation struggle. Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings expressed concern that this shared history could be forgotten and stressed the importance of educating the younger generation about these contributions.
She underscored the responsibility of the PAP to uphold the principles of continental unity and remind Africans of their common fight against colonialism and apartheid. Her remarks come as African leaders and institutions face increasing pressure to address xenophobia and strengthen Pan-African solidarity.
Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings argued that better education on the continent's liberation history would foster mutual respect and discourage hostility toward fellow Africans. Ghana was among the first countries to support the African National Congress and other liberation movements, hosting exiles and providing material aid during apartheid.
As the daughter of Ghana's former President Jerry John Rawlings, a vocal advocate for Pan-Africanism, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings carries forward a legacy of promoting continental unity. Her election as Second Vice President of the PAP was a decisive victory, securing 131 votes against 51 for her opponent, reflecting a strong endorsement of her leadership credentials by members representing the African Union's 55 member states.
Her swearing-in placed her among the top leadership of the Parliament's Bureau, making her one of the key figures shaping the direction of the continental legislative institution. In brief remarks after taking the oath, Dr. Agyeman-Rawlings signaled her readiness to serve, focusing on 'deepening democratic governance, championing health equity, and ensuring that the voices of young people across Africa are heard and represented,' reports quoted her as saying.
The PAP, established in 2004, serves as a platform for elected representatives from across the continent to deliberate on policies aimed at integration, development, and good governance. Although currently advisory, the institution continues to push toward acquiring full legislative powers, including the authority to enact binding laws for member states.