A delegation from the Conference of Speakers and Heads of African Parliaments (CoSHAP), led by Hon Joe Ghartey, recently visited Dakar, Senegal, to engage with prominent figures in the Senegalese parliamentary landscape. The delegation sought to brief both the former Speaker of the National Assembly of Senegal, Mr Mouatapha Niaase, and the current Speaker, Mr Amadou Mame Diop, on the latest developments within CoSHAP.
Upon arrival, the delegation was graciously received by Mr Mouatapha Niaase, accompanied by his advisors. During the meeting, Mr Niaase reminisced about his past collaborations with Ghana, particularly during his tenure as Senegal's Foreign Minister. He highlighted his efforts alongside Ghanaian officials, including Ambassador George Lamptey and the former Secretary-General of the Organisation of African Unity (OAU), HE. Salim Ahmef Salim, in promoting Senegalese interests on the international stage.
As one of the founding Speakers of CoSHAP, Mr Niaase spoke warmly about his relationship with Ghana's former Speaker, Speaker Mike Oquaye, and shared insights into the motivations behind the establishment of CoSHAP. He described CoSHAP as a unique organization comprising Speakers and Heads of African Parliaments, emphasizing its significance in fostering cooperation and dialogue among African nations.
Expressing gratitude for the warm reception and words of wisdom, Hon Joe Ghartey and the delegation thanked Mr Niaase for his hospitality.
Subsequently, the delegation visited the current Speaker of the National Assembly of Senegal, Mr Amadou Mame Diop, where they conveyed warm greetings from the Speaker of Ghana's Parliament, Rt Hon Bagbin. They extended a formal invitation to the Accra Conference scheduled for this year and provided updates on CoSHAP's recent developments. Mr Diop welcomed the delegation warmly and pledged his unwavering support to CoSHAP's initiatives.
The delegation comprised Hon Cletus Avoka, Ambassador Johnathan Magnusin, and Ghana's Ambassador to Senegal, H. E. Emma, along with her team. The meetings took place on Friday, February 16, 2024. Following their visit to Senegal, the delegation continued their engagements in Rwanda and Kenya, demonstrating CoSHAP's commitment to fostering collaboration and partnership across the African continent.