Wetangula represents Africa at Commonwealth Speakers conference in Guernsey

National Assembly Speaker Moses Wetangula on Friday represented the Africa Region at the Standing Committee Meeting of the Conference of Speakers and Presiding Officers of the Commonwealth (CSPOC) in Guernsey, Channel Islands.

As a Member of the CSPOC Standing Committee, Speaker Wetangula highlighted Africa’s priorities, stressing the importance of addressing the continent’s unique challenges and leveraging its vast opportunities on the global stage.

"I am here as a Member of the CSPOC Standing Committee to represent the Africa Region. It is imperative that the specific issues facing our continent are addressed in these global forums," he said during the meeting.

In his address, Speaker Wetangula underscored Africa’s potential in trade, tourism, agriculture, and technological innovation. "Africa is a rich continent that deserves focused attention in these critical sectors," he emphasized.

Expressing hope for productive outcomes, he remarked, "I thank my fellow Speakers for their collaboration and look forward to seeing the implementation of the agreed agenda among Commonwealth nations."

The meeting, chaired by India’s Om Birla, finalized preparations for the 28th CSPOC Conference, scheduled to take place in New Delhi, India, later this year.

Delegates also discussed issues such as the misuse of social media and the spread of fake news, expressing concern over their impact on public communication.

Additionally, the committee confirmed New Delhi as the host city for the 2026 CSPOC General Conference, while the 2027 Standing Committee meeting will convene in Trinidad and Tobago.

Speaker Wetang’ula emphasized the importance of parliamentary diplomacy and peer exchanges, stating: "This meeting offers a crucial platform to ensure Africa’s voice is strongly represented in the Commonwealth’s legislative and governance agenda."

He also advocated for enhanced language inclusivity to accommodate the diversity of Commonwealth member states.

CSPOC, established in 1969, facilitates dialogue and collaboration among Speakers and Presiding Officers of Commonwealth nations, promoting excellence in parliamentary governance.

Wetangula attended the meeting with a distinguished delegation, including Kenya's High Commissioner to the United Kingdom, Amb. Catherine Karemu, the Deputy Clerk of the National Assembly, Jeremiah Ndombi, and the Chief of Staff in the Speaker's Office, Benson Milimo.

Other Standing Committee members present were Sir Lindsay Hoyle (United Kingdom), Greg Fergus (Canada), Milton Dick (Australia), Sir Richard McMahon (Guernsey), Papali’i Li’o Oloipola Taeu Masipau (Samoa), Bridgid Annisette-George (Trinidad and Tobago), and Lord Fakafanua (Tonga).