Newly elected Second Vice-President of the Pan-African Parliament, Zanetor Agyeman-Rawlings, has urged that younger South Africans be taught about the solidarity and sacrifices made by Ghana and other African nations during the struggle to end apartheid and secure South Africa’s liberation.
Speaking upon her arrival in Accra on May 7, 2026, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings said the ideals of African solidarity must be preserved so that future generations understand the unity and sacrifices that helped bring an end to apartheid.
“Ghana, as well as many other countries on the continent, took part in the solidarity struggle towards the final liberation of the people of South Africa,” she said.
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According to her, many young South Africans may not fully appreciate the level of African solidarity that included financial assistance, educational support, asylum, passports, and logistics for liberation fighters.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings stressed that the Pan-African Parliament has a duty to keep the story of African solidarity alive and ensure it remains part of the continent’s shared memory.
“Perhaps we are not telling the story enough to the younger generation, and they need to be reminded about the sacrifices that were made,” she noted.
Her remarks come at a time when renewed xenophobic attacks in South Africa have sparked concern across the continent.
Touching on the attacks, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings described them as unfortunate and confirmed that the issue would be placed on the agenda of the Pan-African Parliament.
“So indeed, yes, it is a topic that we intend to raise as part of the calendar for the Pan-African Parliament,” she said.
Her comments underscore the importance of continental dialogue in addressing tensions that threaten African unity.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings was elected Second Vice-President of the Pan-African Parliament on April 30, 2026, during the body’s session in Midrand, South Africa.
She described the achievement as both humbling and historic, noting that it is only the second time in two decades that Ghana has secured a top leadership role in the continental legislature.
She also made history as the first woman to occupy the position.
“It was a real honour and a very humbling experience,” she said.
Reflecting on the continent’s current challenges, including conflicts and democratic setbacks, Dr Agyeman-Rawlings reaffirmed her commitment to advancing the aspirations of Africans.
She pledged to serve Ghana, the sub-region, and the entire continent to ensure that the vision of Pan-Africanism becomes a lasting legacy.
Dr Agyeman-Rawlings was received at the airport by parliamentary officials led by Ebenezer Ahumah Djietror.
Others present included Rockson-Nelson Dafeamekpor and Comfort Doyoe Cudjoe.
Mr Djietror described her election as “wonderful news,” saying she had “flown the Ghana flag very, very high.”
Mr Dafeamekpor added that her focus on women’s issues was central to her successful campaign and resonated strongly with members across the continent.