The African political parties platform plays a vital role in promoting peace, democracy, and economic growth in Africa. Experts in the field believe that this platform is essential for fostering dialogue and cooperation among political parties. The first African Political Parties Conference, held in Accra, Ghana in August 2025, set the stage for political forces to focus on continental development goals, such as Agenda 2063 of the African Union.
The conference resulted in a 10-point statement that included strengthening cooperation among parties, increasing the participation of women and youth in decision-making, and supporting the African Continental Free Trade Area. The statement aimed to build the institutional capacity of parties, promote development policies, and foster a culture of cooperation. Ethiopia has made significant progress in implementing these points through its practical activities, legal reforms, and political actions.
Ethiopia has been actively implementing the Accra Declaration, demonstrating its commitment to the African political parties platform. The country has created an environment that allows competing parties to work together, sharing power and participating in national issues. The establishment of the National Dialogue Commission and the continued operation of the joint platform for political parties are prime examples of this effort.
Ethiopia has also made significant strides in promoting the participation of women and youth in decision-making. The country has ensured a high level of representation of women in various sectors and has brought many young leaders into top decision-making positions. Ethiopia is cited as a frontrunner in Africa in this regard.
Ethiopia's 10-year development plan, which includes projects in agriculture, industry, digital economy, and urban development, aligns with the African Union's Agenda 2063. The country has also supported the African Continental Free Trade Area, not only by ratifying the agreement but also by opening up its banking sector to foreign investors and implementing macroeconomic reforms.
Ethiopia has taken steps to promote the use of digital technology for political participation, including the development of the Digital Ethiopia 2025 strategy and the digital process of the National Electoral Board. The country's efforts to strengthen constitutionalism and the rule of law, including the reform of democratic institutions, demonstrate its commitment to implementing the Accra Declaration.
Ethiopia's concrete commitment and rich national experience in implementing the Accra Declaration make it an ideal host for the second African Political Parties Conference. The country was chosen to host the conference due to its significance as the seat of the African Union and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa, as well as its modern infrastructure, including the Adwa Victory Memorial and the African Union Conference Center.
Key points
- Ethiopia has made significant progress in implementing the Accra Declaration, demonstrating its commitment to the African political parties platform.
- The country has promoted the participation of women and youth in decision-making and has implemented projects aligned with the African Union's Agenda 2063.
- Ethiopia will host the second African Political Parties Conference in Addis Ababa from October 26 to 28, 2019.
