Report

 

The Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association was represented by the Honourable Mauril Bélanger, P.C., M.P., Co-Chair of the Association; the Honourable Raynell Andreychuk, Senator, Co-Chair of the Association; Mr. David Christopherson, M.P., Vice-President of the Association; and the Honourable Jim Munson, Senator, Director of the Association.  The delegation was assisted by Ms. Julie Lalande-Prud’homme, Executive Secretary of the Association, and Mr. Michael Dewing, Analyst for the Association.

OBJECTIVES

            The Canada-Africa Parliamentary Association undertook bilateral visits to Luanda, Angola and Windhoek, Namibia from 16-21 August 2009.  The visits had the following objectives: 

·         to engage parliamentarians on topics of mutual interest;

·         to strengthen bilateral relations and parliamentary cooperation;

·         to foster mutual understanding of bilateral issues;

·         to learn about continental issues and their impact on regional bodies; and

·         to study Canadian activity in the region, along with the role of civil society groups and businesses.

            To meet these objectives, the delegation met with Angolan and Namibian parliamentarians and government officials, representatives of political parties, Canadian representatives, and members of non-governmental organizations.  It also made program visits.

Key Issues

            Angola, a former Portuguese colony which was plagued by civil war from the early 1960s until 2002, is in the process of rebuilding its economy, its infrastructure, and its institutions.  At the same time, Angola is still suffering from the effects of the war, including urban congestion and inadequate rural governance.  Although it has significant oil resources, much of its population of 13 million remains poor.  Angola, a key Lusophone country, is beginning to play a greater role in the Southern African region.

            Neighbouring Namibia is a sparsely populated former German colony which was controlled by South Africa from 1915 until 1990.  It retains strong ties with South Africa.  Although relatively prosperous, its wealth is unevenly distributed and it is faced with issues related to job creation and land distribution.

            Currently, Canadian involvement in both countries is limited.  In Angola, Canada has been involved in demining activities and in humanitarian efforts.  Export Development Canada (EDC) recently provided a US$1 billion line of credit to help Canadian companies become involved with infrastructure projects.  In Namibia, Canada helped with the transition to independence and has cooperated with Namibia in restricting the trade in conflict diamonds, in dealing with issues surrounding the seal hunt, and in controlling illegal fishing on the high seas.  In addition, the Province of Saskatchewan has helped Namibia improve its public administration. 

            Both Angola and Namibia are members of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) and the Southern African Development Community (SADC).  The former is a body of the African Union, while the latter is a 15-member body which aims to help the countries in the Southern African region harmonize their political and socio-economic policies.

            The Association’s earlier African trips focused on the evolution of regional cooperation in Eastern Africa and in North Africa, as well as on developing relations with the PAP.  On this trip, the Association was interested in seeing how countries as different as Angola and Namibia are cooperating with their regional partners through organizations such as the PAP and the SADC.  It was also interested in exploring opportunities for enhanced Canadian engagement with these two countries.

ANGOLA

A.   Background

            A former Portuguese colony, Angola gained independence in 1975 after a long civil war.  Several groups were involved in the liberation struggle, and after independence, the Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA) formed a government.  However, fighting soon broke out between the MPLA and its rivals, the Angolan National Liberation Front (FNLA) and the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA).  In 1991, the leader of the MPLA, Eduardo dos Santos, and UNITA leader Jonas Savimbi signed a peace agreement, but when the MPLA won presidential and legislative elections the following year, UNITA resumed fighting.  The war continued until 2002, when Savimbi was killed by government troops. 

            The first peacetime legislative elections were held in 2008. President Dos Santo’s MPLA won 191 seats in the 220-seat National Assembly, while UNITA took 16.  The Social Renewal Party (PRS) took eight seats, the FNLA three, and the New Democracy Coalition (ND) two. 

            With a democratically elected National Assembly in place, the next step in Angola’s political renewal is the revision of the constitution.  At the time of the delegation’s visit, a draft constitution was being prepared by a 45-member Constitutional Commission.  The presidential election, which had been expected to be held in late 2009, had yet to be scheduled.  Some commentators expected it to be postponed until the new constitution is in place.

            Prior to independence, Angola’s economy was based on agriculture, but this was disrupted by the war.  Today, the sector is rebounding, and Angola has the potential to become a major agriculture producer once again.^[1]   Currently, Angola’s economy is based largely on oil, and it is now the largest producer in Africa. 

            Angola’s oil wealth and its access to loans – particularly from China – meant that it has not had to rely on the International Monetary Fund (IMF) for assistance.  However, with the down-turn in the price of oil caused by the global economic crisis, in August 2009 the Angolan government and the IMF agreed to enter talks on a loan.^([2])  There remain concerns over corruption, and Transparency International ranks Angola as 158 out of 180 countries on its 2008 Corruption Perceptions Index.^([3])

            Issues resulting from the long civil war – which took the lives of an estimated 500,000 people – continue to affect the country.  Angola ranks 157^th out of 179 countries on the United Nations Development Programme Human Development Index^([4]), a large percentage of the population of 13 million lives in poverty, and the urban population is growing rapidly.  For instance, during the war, many people moved to Luanda for safety.  Its population grew from 400,000 in 1974 to an estimated four to six million today, but its infrastructure has not been able to keep up.^([5])  Meanwhile, in the countryside, the development of agriculture is being slowed down by the proliferation of land mines, as well as the lack of infrastructure and the non-existence of rural governance.

            China is a major presence in Angola.  Angola is one of China’s main sources of oil. ^([6]).  The Chinese government has provided loans worth at least US$3 billion^([7]) and Chinese companies are heavily involved in infrastructure projects.  Concerns about this involvement include the lack of transparency about Chinese operations and the outsourcing of jobs Angolans could do themselves.^([8])

            Recently, there has been increased international interest in Angola.  Earlier in the year, there had been visits by Pope Benedict XVI and US Secretary of State Hillary Clinton.  

            Canada’s bilateral relations with Angola are limited.  The Embassy of Canada in Zimbabwe is responsible for Angola.  Canada also has an Honorary Consul in Luanda, Mr. Allan Cain, who was very helpful in organizing the delegation’s visit.  Canada’s focus is on trade, particularly in the mining and oil sectors.  In terms of development assistance, Canada helped with humanitarian assistance after the end of the civil war in 2002 and has worked with Angola to deal with anti-personnel mines.  CIDA does not have a bilateral assistance program in Angola, but does provide funding for small scale, grassroots initiatives.  It also provides humanitarian assistance through multilateral institutions.^([9])  To help facilitate Canadian participation in infrastructure projects, Export Development Canada (EDC) had recently provided a US$1 billion line of credit.^([10])

B.   Meetings and visits

1.            Meeting with the Coordinator of the Peacebuilding & Citizenship Programme for Development Workshop

            Mrs. Eunice Inácio is the Coordinator of the Peacebuilding & Citizenship Programme for Development Workshop (DW), the oldest non-governmental organization (NGO) in Angola.  She briefed the delegation on DW’s work in the areas of peace-building, civic education, and youth involvement.  In discussion with the delegation, Mrs. Inácio described the changes Angola has undergone since the end of the civil war and the efforts being made to help people build trust.  She also talked about the challenges facing women, including the lack of access to resources, the difficulty obtaining credit, and forced evictions without compensation from informal settlements.  She said that urban poverty is a major issue and she talked about a project to study urban poverty that DW is conducting with support from the Canadian International Development Research Centre (IDRC).^([11])  In the area of schooling, Mrs. Inácio said that two-thirds to three-quarters of children attend school and that university attendance is growing quickly.

2.    Meeting with the National Assembly’s Committee on International Relations, International Cooperation and Angolan Communities Abroad; the Committee on Human Rights, Petitions and Citizen’s Complaints and Suggestions; and the National Parliamentary Pan-African Group

            Ms. Ângela Bragança, MP, Chair of the Committee on International Relations, International Cooperation and Angolan Communities Abroad, began with an overview of Angola’s situation.  She said now that the war is over, Angola needs to consolidate its democracy, reconstruct its social and economic fabric, and heal the wounds of the war.  To these ends, it cooperates internationally in order to gain modern technology and know-how.  Regarding the National Assembly, she said that it needs to build the capacity of MPs and to strengthen internal procedures.

            Mr. Raúl Danda, MP, Vice-Chair of the Committee on Human Rights, Petitions and Citizen’s Complaints and Suggestions, then described how citizens who feel they are not receiving justice can address their complaints to the Committee, which then seeks to find solutions.  The Committee also visits prisons and recommends ways to improve conditions.  Mr. Danda said the Committee had dealt with the issue of preventive arrests, and that as a result, the number of these arrests was reduced.  The Committee is also concerned with the issue of forced evictions, and the National Assembly passed a motion urging respect for the law.  Mr. Danda said that although the Committee’s resources are limited, they do their best to engage themselves.

            The third presentation was by Mr. Luís Cuanga, MP, Vice-Chair of the National Parliamentary Pan-African Group.  About 23 MPs are in the Group, and five MPs represent Angola at the Pan-African Parliament (PAP).  Mr. Cuanga said the PAP’s greatest challenge was making the change from a consultative body to one with full power of deliberation. 

            Finally, Mr. Adriano de Carvalho, MP, Chair of the Subcommittee on Citizen’s Petitions, Complaints and Suggestions, described the work of the Subcommittee in providing citizens with a way of resolving conflicts.  The delegation was interested to hear that it receives 70 to 80 people every week and tries to reply to all of them.  The Subcommittee organizes meetings with companies and follow-ups on issues linked to land.

            In response to questions from the delegation, the Angolan MPs discussed how the Committee on Human Rights deals with cases by offering suggestions to both parties.  They explained how opposition MPs participate on the Committees.  They also talked about interparliamentary cooperation, which is in its initial stages.

3.            Meeting with the Acting Speaker of the Angolan National Assembly

            Mr. João Lourenço, MP, Acting Speaker of the National Assembly, summarized Angola’s development since the end of the civil war.  He identified reconciliation, reconstruction, and the integration of those who fought against the government as the main priorities.  He then gave an overview of the party composition in the National Assembly and of the gender balance, in which more than 30% of MPs are women.  Mr. Lourenço said one of the challenges facing the National Assembly is the approval of a new constitution, a process which he hoped would be concluded in the following year.  On the economic front, he said Angola had been affected by the global economic crisis, particularly fluctuations in the price of oil.  He stressed that oil revenue allows the country to invest in areas such as industry, agriculture, and public works.

            In response to questions from the delegation, Mr. Lourenço talked about Angola’s regulation of foreign currency due to the drop in foreign reserves as a result of the reduction in the price of oil.  He recognized the impact it was having on international trade.  He elaborated on Angola’s efforts to diversify its economy through the use of tax incentives and the promotion of private investment.  The Acting Speaker talked about the weak supply of goods and services and noted the need for more hotels.  He also recognized that the process of obtaining visas was bureaucratic, but said that Angola is a young democracy and has to control its borders.

            On the subject of the PAP, Mr. Lourenço said it cannot be compared with institutions such as the European Parliament.  Only if a United States of Africa were created would PAP become a true parliament.  Consequently, the evolution of PAP depends on the evolution of the African Union.

4.            Meeting with the Constitutional Commission

            The Constitutional Commission is the parliamentary group charged with drafting a new constitution for Angola.  The meeting with the Constitutional Commission began with a presentation by Mr. Bornito de Sousa, MP, Chair of the Constitutional Commission and MPLA Majority Leader in Parliament.  He described the process of drafting a new constitution.  Three draft bills have been prepared to reflect different perspectives.  These will be discussed publically and citizens will provide their input.  Mr. de Sousa also said that constitutional reform could have on the timing of the presidential election, but that this needed to be discussed in Parliament.

            The delegation and the members of the Constitutional Commission then held a dialogue on the constitutional reform process, the ways in which minorities can be represented in Parliament, the role federalism can play in protecting minorities, the place of municipal governments in the constitution, and the status of the New Partnership for Africa’s Development (NEPAD).

5.    Meeting with members of the National Assembly’s Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs; the Committee on Education, Science and Technology, Culture, Youth, Sports, Religious Affairs and Social Communication; and the Administrative Council of the National Assembly

            Ms. Eduarda Magalhães, MP, deputy chairperson of the Committee on Education, Science and Technology, Culture, Youth, Sports, Religious Affairs and Social Communication, described the role of the two committees and the Administrative Council.  The Committee on Education, Science and Technology, Culture, Youth, Sports, Religious Affairs and Social Communication works with the government on legislation in those areas.  The Committee on Constitutional and Legal Affairs addresses all legal issues and works in collaboration with other institutions.  The Administrative Council is the consultative and management organ of the National Assembly.  It works on technical and administrative issues, international cooperation, financial management, and training.

            After her presentation, the Angolan Members of Parliament and the delegation discussed programs for families with children who have intellectual disabilities, the fight against HIV/AIDS and other diseases, and how the Angolan Parliament deals with women’s issues and religious issues.

6.            Meeting with the Leaders of Parliamentary Groups

            The delegation met with leaders of all the political groups represented in the National Assembly:  Mr. Norberto dos Santos, MP of the ruling Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), Mr. Gabriel Samy, MP of the National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA), Mr. António Sapalo, MP of the Social Renewal Party (PRS), Mr. Ngola Kabangu, MP of the Angolan National Liberation Front (FNLA), and Mr. Quintino Moreira, MP of the New Democracy Coalition (ND).

            The meeting was very open and there was a good interchange between the leaders.  Mr. dos Santos gave an overview of Angola’s situation, concentrating on the national reconciliation in the wake of the civil war.  He discussed the measures taken to deal with the economic crisis and said that the government had been able to maintain social investments, such as the building of one million houses.  He said that even though the MPLA has a majority in the National Assembly, it is open to cooperating with the other parties.

            Mr. Moreira described the creation of the New Democracy Coalition.  He also said that because the opposition parties hold only 29 of the National Assembly’s 220 seats, they need to work together.  Mr. Kabangu said that with only three seats in the National Assembly, it would be disastrous for the FNLA to put pressure on the government.  Consequently, his party considers the interests of Angola when deciding how to vote, and votes in favour of measures that will help the country.  Mr. Samy talked of the need for opposition MPs to be heard.  He said that the judiciary is not independent and that television does not always broadcast the actions of opposition parties, while broadcasting government actions.  Mr. Sapalo talked about violations of human rights, which he said was the main preoccupation of his party.

            Following their presentations, the party leaders and members of the delegation discussed the lack of municipal governments in Angola and the need to develop democracy by working on the fight against corruption and on the allocation of resources.  The Angolan parliamentarians recognized that developing democracy is a long process.

7.            Meeting with the National Assembly’s Committee on Economy and Finance

            The members of the Committee on Economy and Finance gave an overview of the Committee’s work, Angola’s economic situation, and the government’s investments in infrastructure.  Mr. Sérgio dos Santos, MP, said the Committee had identified four main issues:

·         The economy depends to a large extent on the oil and mining sectors. 

·         Unemployment risks creating social instability. 

·         The war led to uneven development, with the majority of people living on the coast with no links to inland regions.

·         The informal economy plays a large role.

            Mr. dos Santos then described the effects of the financial crisis on the Angolan economy.  He said a 23% drop in oil revenues had led to a deficit in the balance of payments.  The Committee then gave a detailed slide presentation on infrastructure projects throughout the country.  These include the construction of roads, bridges, railways, sanitation facilities, ports and airports, hospitals, schools, water systems, and industrial developments.

            The discussion that followed dealt with Canadian businesses operating in Angola and their concerns about restrictions on foreign exchange.  The response from Angolan MPs was that the economic crisis had led to a shortage of foreign exchange, and the government had to respond.  They also said that Canadian businesses have to take a long-term view and bet on the development of the country.  The discussion also touched on the Angolan budget, agriculture, and private-sector investment.

8.            Visit to the KixiCredito Microfinance Institution

            KixiCredito was created by DW in 1999.  It began as a development programme known as the Sustainable Livelihoods Project and in 2004 it became a commercial microfinance institution.^([12])  KixiCredito does not take deposits.

            The delegation travelled to Kilamba Kiaxi municipality, an informal settlement of some 800,000 people on the outskirts of Luanda.  There, it visited a branch of KixiCredito.  The branch has 10 loan officers, 2,000 clients and a loan portfolio of US$1.2 million. 

            The branch manager explained how the branch operates and how it tries to keep its customers satisfied.  He also described the situation for the poor living in informal settlements.  Very few have access to banks and loan sharks charge interest of 50% a week, payable in full.  In contrast, KixiCredito charges 3% per month, payable in instalments.  About 60% of its loans are to women.

            Before lending to someone, KixiCredito loan officers perform background checks.  People begin with small loans and if they prove they are reliable, they are able to borrow more.  As a result, KixiCredito has a default rate of about 2%.  KixiCredito also uses a solidarity group model.  Because people in the group have no collateral, they guarantee each other’s loans.  This promotes cooperation within the market and improves business skills within the group.  The group begins with the smallest possible loans and the loans increase as the group’s confidence grows. 

            After the presentation, some delegates had the occasion to visit some people who are taking advantage of microcredit.  They saw the area in which the people live and the markets that they serve.  The delegates were impressed by the enthusiasm showed by the people and by their support for each other.

9.            Visit to Cidade Universitária

            Members of the delegation visited the new national university campus (Cidade Universitária) being built on the outskirts of Luanda.  They were met by the Deputy-Minister of Public Works, Ms. Manuela Bezerra.

            When Angola became independent, it inherited a limited university system without a campus structure.  The new, modern campus is an extension of Agostinho Neto University, whose scattered facilities can no longer meet demand.  When it is completed in 10 or 15 years, the 2,000 hectare campus will accommodate 17,000 students.  Phase I, which will initially accommodate 7,000 students, is nearing completion.  It includes the library and buildings for the faculties of chemistry, mathematics, physics, and computer sciences.  These will provide the core for other faculties, which will be built in subsequent phases.

            The delegation noted with interest that Angola is investing in its human capital by emphasizing education in mathematics and the sciences.  It was also impressed by the environmentally sensitive design of the campus uses prevailing winds to provide cooling and the roof is constructed so as to create shade between the buildings. 

            Nearby, the delegation also visited the new 50,000-seat stadium being built to host the African Football Cup of Nations in January 2010.  It too is nearing completion, as are the new roads leading to it.

10.         Meeting with the Deputy-Minister of Territorial Administration

            The delegation met with Mr. Graciano Domingos, Deputy-Minister of Territorial Administration, and departmental officials.  Mr. Domingos gave an update on a project to develop the municipality of Ambriz being proposed by the Canadian consulting company CPCS.  He explained that the project was undergoing technical evaluation. 

            On the subject of decentralization, Mr. Domingos described the process, the main task of which is to transfer the responsibilities of government ministers to provincial governments.  He also explained that whenever the central government wants to initiate a project, it must consult with provincial governors.  He said that during the war, many people moved to Luanda.  The city still attracts people, and he said that development in the provinces would encourage people to stay in their own regions.

            Mr. Domingos described the government’s efforts to support the management of municipalities.  In order to develop management capacity, municipalities need their own resources.  Because it is unable to support all municipalities at first, the government will choose those with economic potential and help them develop their local governments.

            In discussion with the delegation, Mr. Domingos said that decentralization was aimed at the provincial level, rather that the municipal level.  He expected that in the future, local authorities will have the power to raise revenues and apply for commercial loans.  To have effective local administration, however, municipal administrators and politicians would have to be trained.  Mr. Domingos said Angola would be open to cooperation with Canada in the area of training municipal officials.  The delegation promised to convey the idea to the Canadian Government and to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM), which has a programme to help local governments around the world develop their capacity to deliver basic services. 

11.         Meeting with the Deputy-Minister of Foreign Affairs

            The delegation met with Ms. Exalgina Gambôa, Deputy-Minister of Foreign Affairs.  She gave an overview of Angolan-Canadian relations and of Angola’s relations with neighbouring countries, particularly Namibia.   

            The delegation explained its reasons for visiting Angola and said it would relay Angola’s interest in pursuing economic development.  The delegation noted that Export Development Canada (EDC) had recently provided a US$1 billion line of credit to facilitate Canadian participation in upcoming infrastructure projects in Angola.^([13])

            Ms. Gambôa expressed her thanks to the delegation for its initiative in visiting Angola and said that Angola would appreciate Canada’s support for its initiatives at the G8 in the areas of climate change and the preservation of forests.  The delegation noted that Canada would be hosting the 2010 G8 Summit and promised to convey her message.

12. Meeting with the Officials of the Angolan National Agency
for Private Investment

            The National Agency for Private Investment (ANIP) promotes private investment by providing financial incentives and assisting investors through streamlined application procedures.  Mr. Dealdino Balombo, a member of ANIP’s management committee, explained that since the end of the civil war, the government had worked to diversify the economy and to create conditions for growth of the private sector. 

            In the discussion that followed, the delegation noted the impact foreign exchange restrictions had had on Canadian businesses in Angola.  Mr. Balombo responded by talking about the impact of the financial crisis on Angola’s foreign reserves and said the government had to take measures to manage them.  He went on to say that Angola would like direct foreign investment to develop.  It also encourages partnerships and though it has obtained lines of credit from China, wants to do business with many different countries. 

            Regarding the IMF, Mr. Balombo said that although Angola had never signed an agreement with the IMF, it pays attention to its recommendations and implements those that it feels are good for the economy.  He also talked about Angola’s efforts to reach out to non-Lusophone countries and said that efforts are being made to improve the teaching of English and French in schools.

NAMIBIA

A.   Background

            A former German colony, Namibia (formerly South-West Africa) came under South African control after World War I.  In the 1960s, South Africa opposed attempts by the United Nations to establish Namibia as an independent country.  Nevertheless, the UN recognized the South-West African People’s Organization (SWAPO), a guerrilla group fighting for independence, as the voice of the Namibian people.

            The stalemate lasted until 1988, when South Africa agreed to Namibia’s accession to independence.  Canada participated in the transitional peacekeeping process.  Namibia became independent in 1990.  SWAPO won the first presidential and legislative elections in 1994, and has held power ever since.  Legislative elections are scheduled for November 2009.

            Though Namibia has a per capita income that is above the average for sub-Saharan Africa, a small, mostly white minority enjoys most of the wealth.  Unemployment exceeds 35%.^([14])  Transparency International ranks Namibia as 61 out of 180 countries on its 2008 Corruption Perceptions Index.^([15])

            Land is an important issue, as much of the modern economy is based on commercial ranching.  Although some farms were acquired by the government for redistribution to disadvantaged farmers, the issue remains contentious.  Most of the population of two million depends on subsistence farming.

            In addition to ranching, Namibia’s economy relies heavily on mining – especially diamonds and uranium – and on commercial fishing.  There are rich fishing grounds off the coast of Namibia.  Overfishing by foreign vessels used to be a problem, but since independence, the Namibia government has introduced a resource management policy and enforcement mechanisms, and overfishing appears to have been halted.^([16])  Namibia also has an important seal hunt, which faces many of the same issues as it does in Canada. 

            During 2009, Namibia held the chair of the Kimberley Process (KP).  This is a process for stemming the illicit trade in conflict diamonds, under which its members certify shipments of rough diamonds as “conflict-free.”  The KP has 49 members, representing 75 countries, with the European Community counting as an individual participant.  Canada has participated in the KP since it was launched in 2000.

            Bilateral relations between Canada and Namibia are modest.  Since Canada’s High Commission in Namibia closed in 1993, it has been represented by the High Commission of Canada in South Africa.  There is also an Honorary Consul in Windhoek, Mr. Francois Uys, who was a great help in organizing the delegation’s visit. 

            In addition to cooperating on the KP, the two countries work together on the issue of overfishing on the high seas.  They also cooperate through the Commonwealth.  CIDA does not have a significant bilateral development assistance program in Namibia, but does provide funding for small scale, grassroots development initiatives and for humanitarian assistance through multilateral institutions.   In addition, the Province of Saskatchewan has worked with Namibia since 1995, providing help in the areas of financial management, executive government, human resources, and land management.

            Trade between Canada and Namibia is made up largely of Canadian imports of uranium, while Canadian exports consist primarily of machinery.  Canadian companies are involved in the Namibian mining sector.^([17])

B.   Meetings

1.    Meeting with the Secretary General of the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum

            The Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) is a regional inter-parliamentary body composed of parliaments from 13 SADC countries – Angola, Botswana, Democratic Republic of Congo, Lesotho, Malawi, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, South Africa, Swaziland, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe.  It has a staff of 35 and is based in Windhoek.  The main aim of the SADC PF is to provide a platform for parliamentarians to promote regional integration in the region.

            The delegation met with Dr. Esau Chiviya, the Secretary General of the SADC PF, and Ms. Boemo Sekgoma, the HIV/AIDS Policy Advisor.  They described their work in promoting democracy and good governance, in training parliamentarians, and in providing a consultative forum on issues such as HIV/AIDS and gender.  The SADC PF does not interfere with countries’ sovereignty.  Rather, it makes suggestions and each country can choose which suggestions it wants to implement.  The SADC PF also establishes benchmarks for election observation, and develops model legislation in areas such as HIV/AIDS.  They also talked about the challenges facing the SADC PF, including the shortage of technical staff and parliamentarians’ lack of capacity in holding the executive to account.

            In dialogue with the delegation, Dr. Chiviya and Ms. Sekgoma elaborated on the benchmarks used for observing elections, saying the SADC PF uses international standards but adapts them to the region.  Ms. Sekgoma discussed the need to use evidence when developing policies in areas such as HIV/AIDS.  To give examples, she mentioned the lifting of bans on sex workers by countries holding international conferences and the use of condoms in prison.  More generally, Dr. Chiviya said that reforms suggested by the SADC PF – such as the use of transparent ballot boxes – are often implemented quietly. 

2.    Meeting with the Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare

            Before entering politics, the Honourable Marlene Mungunda was a teacher and community activist.  She served as Minister of Labour and in 2005 was appointed Minister of Gender Equality and Child Welfare. 

            Minister Mungunda described the Namibian government’s efforts to promote gender equality through its National Gender Policy.  This includes having women make up at least 30% of the people in decision-making bodies.  The Minister also said that gender-based violence is a big concern, along with baby dumping, human trafficking, and illiteracy.  She discussed measures to help protect vulnerable children and delinquent youth.  She also talked about community development, measures to encourage women to start businesses, and female poverty.

            In dialogue with the delegation, Minister Mungunda and her staff talked about provisions for pregnancy leave, early child development, and a campaign to combat gender-based violence.  She noted that Namibia is a very uneven society, in which one percent of the population lives in the First World and the rest live in the Third World.  

3.    Meeting with the Speaker of the National Assembly

            Dr. Theo-Ben Gurirab, MP, Speaker of the National Assembly and also President of the Inter-Parliamentary Union (IPU), began by recalling Canada’s help with Namibia’s independence and its continuing efforts to promote dialogue with Africa.  He noted that Africa was changing and that military or “big-man” rule was almost a thing of the past.  He gave an overview of Namibia’s transition to independence and democracy, and said that had it failed, South Africa would not have ended its apartheid system.  Dr. Gurirab went on to talk about the different platforms available for parliamentary cooperation, such as the IPU and Speakers’ meetings, and said that more cooperation was needed, particularly in the economic field.

            In the discussion that followed, the Speaker and the delegation talked about the gender balance in parliament, free trade, and ways of furthering parliamentary cooperation.  They also discussed ways in which Namibia and Canada could cooperate in areas such as mining technology, the clearing of unwanted bushes from agricultural land, and academic exchanges.

4.    Meeting with Members of Parliament

            The delegation held a round-table discussion with six Members of Parliament:  Honourable Johan de Waal, MP (Democratic Turnhalle Alliance, or DTA), Honourable Clara G. Bohihle (SWAPO), Honourable McHenry Venaani (DTA), MP; Honourable Hans G. Booys (SWAPO), the Chief Government Whip; Honourable Peya Mushelenga, MP, (SWAPO); and Honourable Tsudao I. Gurirab, MP (Congress of Democrats, or CoD). 

            The participants talked about how Canada could help Namibia in the areas of free trade, academic exchanges, and strengthening the SADC’s capacity.  They then discussed the impact of closing of Canada’s High Commission in Namibia in 1993.  They also talked about China’s evolving role in Namibia, the disparities between population groups and the rise of a black middle class, and tourism.  The dialogue also touched on parliamentary matters, such as the role of the public accounts committee, the impact being a farmer has on an MP’s legislative role, the low level of staff support for Namibian MPs, the remuneration of MPs, and the opportunities for foreigners to participate as election observers in the up-coming elections.  The delegation noted that Namibian parliamentarians have far fewer resources than Canadian parliamentarians.

5.    Meeting with the Executive Director of the Institute for Public Policy Research

            The Institute for Public Policy Research (IPPR) is a not-for-profit NGO that performs independent research on social, political, and economic issues in the hope of encouraging debate.  Mr. Graham Hopwood is the Executive Director of the IPPR.

            Mr. Hopwood gave an overview of the IPPR’s work, noting that the Canadian government funds its election watch bulletin.  On the subject of the up-coming elections, he said the capacity of the Electoral Commission of Namibia had been eroded.  He also said that during the last elections in 2004 there had been irregularities due to mistakes.  Mr. Hopwood also expressed concerns about whether the amendments to the election law that had been passed recently – which include changes to the way votes are counted – would be implemented in time for the election, whether the supplementary voter registration would be conducted properly, and whether all political parties would be free to campaign in all parts of the country.  He also pointed out that SWAPO, with its overwhelming majority of seats, had more access to the state media and to state party financing.

            In dialogue with the delegation, Mr. Hopwood said that although Namibia had lively independent newspapers, the ability for the opposition to obtain radio coverage in rural areas was limited.  He also discussed the shortage of election observers.

6.    Meeting with the Secretary to Cabinet

            Mr. Frans H. Kapofi, the Secretary to Cabinet – the equivalent of Canada’s Clerk of the Privy Council – met the delegation at the new State House.  Mr. Kapofi talked about cooperation with Saskatchewan and Canada’s help in assisting Namibia improve its capacity to deliver services, manage cabinet business, and evaluate land.  He addressed questions about Namibia’s readiness to conduct the up-coming elections, the evaluation of positions within the public service, and the funding of Parliament. 

7.    Meeting with the Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources

            Dr. Abraham Iyambo, MP, has been a member of the National Assembly since 1995 and became Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources in 1997.  In talking about Namibia’s efforts to manage its fishery, he said that much had been achieved in a short time, but that more scientists were needed to research fish stocks.  To combat overfishing, he said that as a result of the monitoring mechanisms Namibia had set, the problem was now negligible.  In addition, both Canada and Namibia are members of the High Seas Task Force, a ministerial task force on illegal, unreported, and unregulated fishing on the high seas.^([18])  On the subject of sealing, Minister Iyambo talked about issues that affect both Canada and Namibia.  He also explained Namibia’s effort to build an aquaculture industry.

            In discussion with the delegation, the Minister elaborated on Namibia’s aquaculture industry, which concentrates on oysters, cultured abalone, clams, and mussels.  He also said Namibia needs help building capacity to deal with diseases in fish stocks. 

8.    Meeting with the Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Namibia

            The delegation met with Dr. Victor Tonchi, the Chairman of the Electoral Commission of Namibia (ECN), and three of the four other Commissioners.  Dr. Tonchi gave an overview of Namibia’s electoral process and said the country had been a leader in establishing democracy in the Southern African region.  He explained changes to the way in which Commissioners of the ECN are chosen – previously appointed by the President, they are now selected by a committee.  He said the ECN had conducted a number of elections without any hitches.  He also said that recent changes to the electoral law provide for counting at polling stations, whereas in the past ballots were taken to central locations to be counted. 

            In dialogue with the delegation, the Commissioners discussed reasons there had been delays in vote counting in previous elections, the functioning of the registration process, the process for being accredited as an election observer, and the accessibility of polling stations.  They also elaborated on the way in which the ECN reports to Parliament, how its recommendations are dealt with, and the method by which the ECN is financed. 

9.    Meeting with Officials of the Ministry of Mines and Energy

            The delegation met with Mr. Kavenanguvesora Kaundje, the Acting Diamond Commissioner with the Ministry of Mines and Energy, along with other ministry officials.  Mr. Kaundje described the Kimberley Process (KP), which is designed to prevent the trade in conflict diamonds, and reviewed developments during Namibia’s year-long chairmanship of the KP.  The challenges during the year included Venezuela’s withdrawal from the KP and dealing with accusations of human rights abuses against diamond miners in Zimbabwe.  The officials also described their efforts to combat traffic in fake KP certificates.

            In discussion with the delegation, the officials gave more details on Venezuela’s opting out of the KP and the steps being taken to keep it engaged.  They also talked about efforts being taken to monitor the flow of diamonds between member countries of the KP and the impact of the resignation of Mr. Ian Smillie as Research Coordinator with Partnership Africa Canada, an NGO that monitors the KP.

10. Meeting with Officials from the Ministry of Lands, Resettlement and Rehabilitation

            The delegation met with Mr. Mackay Rigava, Deputy Valuer^([19]) General with the Ministry of Lands, Resettlement and Rehabilitation, along with other ministry officials.  Mr. Rigava talked about how Namibia set up its land assessment system and the help it had received from the Province of Saskatchewan.  He also described Namibia’s efforts to acquire commercial agricultural land and redistribute it to the disadvantaged.  He explained the difference between communal land, free-hold land, and national parks.  He also talked about the partnership project with Saskatchewan, the role of the Agricultural Bank of Namibia in helping the disadvantaged buy land, and the challenges in acquiring suitable land for redistribution.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

            The delegation attended briefing sessions presented by the Canadian honorary consuls in both Luanda and Windhoek.

            In Luanda, the delegation attended a working dinner with Canadian business people based in Angola.  It also attended a dinner hosted by the National Assembly of Angola.  In Windhoek, the delegation attended a working lunch and a dinner hosted by the Namibia National Assembly.

            In Luanda, the delegation held media interviews with ANGOP, the Angolan press agency, and with the Jornal de Angola.  In Luanda, the delegation held a sit-down session with media representatives from The Namibian, the Namibian Broadcasting Corporation, Allgemeine Zeitung, New Era, and Republikein.  The delegation trip was highlighted in various media outlets.

CONCLUSION

            In Angola, the Association formed the impression that there is a determined effort to overcome the effects of 30 years of civil war and to find peaceful and democratic solutions to their differences.  However, much remains to be done to ensure lasting stability. 

            In the political arena, Angola has made progress in developing its democracy and its political parties accept the need to sit down together to find common ground.  Parliamentary committees have a good sense of their mandates and how to fulfil them.  Women play leadership roles within the National Assembly.  The Association also noted the special efforts of Angolan MPs to respond to complaints from citizens, and felt this provided people with a good way of becoming involved in the political process.

            Generally speaking, Angolan MPs were anxious to improve their ability to perform their roles, but the National Assembly is still in its early stages of development and needs resources to help them do so.  There was also uncertainty surrounding the revision of the constitution and the effect this process might have on the timing of the presidential election.  The delegation felt that greater interparliamentary cooperation between Canada and Angola could benefit Angola’s democratic development.

            The delegation also noticed that local government in Angola is in need of development.  In order to relieve the congestion in Luanda and other cities, rural structures must be rebuilt and municipal governance needs to be developed.  Angola needs help in this area, and the Association promised to relay this message to the Federation of Canadian Municipalities (FCM).

            The delegation was struck by the amount of construction activity in Luanda.  Cranes dominate the skyline in the centre of the city, new roads are being built, and a modern stadium is nearing completion.  The delegation was particularly impressed by the new university campus being constructed, and felt that this augured well for Angola’s long-term development.  At the same time, the delegation observed the vast expanses of informal settlement on the outskirts of Luanda, where there is minimal infrastructure and few social services.   

            Given the pace of development in Angola and the amount of work that remains to be done, the delegation felt there are potential opportunities for Canadian companies.  However, both the Canadian business people the delegation met and Angolan officials stressed that involvement in Angola is not for the faint-of-heart and that companies wishing to enter the market must expect to make a long-term commitment. 

            Canada has a good reputation in Angola, and the delegation heard that Angola would welcome greater involvement.  The delegation commends Export Development Canada (EDC) for providing a US$1 billion line of credit to assist Canadian companies in Angola.  However, it also felt that to capitalize on this initiative, the Canadian government should establish, at the very least, a trade office in Angola.  It should also take stock of Angola’s progress and potential as a key player in Southern Africa.

            Angola is also becoming more active on the international stage, as evidenced by the proposals it has made to the G8 in the areas of climate change and the preservation of forests.  The delegation promised to convey the message that Angola is looking for support for its proposals.

            In Namibia, the delegation noted that Namibia and Canada have like-minded approaches on many issues, including trade, the seal hunt, and illegal fishing on the high seas.  The delegation heard about the National Assembly’s lack of resources and felt there was the need for future interparliamentary cooperation, particularly in areas such as the public accounts committee.  It also felt there are opportunities for cooperation on governance matters. 

            In the area of social policy, the delegation was impressed by Namibian efforts to promote gender equality and to help disadvantaged groups.  At the same time, it was encouraged that Namibian parliamentarians and officials acknowledge there are on-going problems in areas such as gender-based violence and the redistribution of land.

            The delegation noted Namibia’s disappointment that Canada had closed its High Commission there and its satisfaction with Saskatchewan’s efforts in the areas of public administration and land management.  It felt that the federal government should build on these efforts and on Canada’s good reputation in Namibia. 

            On the subject of regional affairs, the delegation heard that it will take time before the Pan-African Parliament becomes more than a consultative body.  However, it was impressed by the efforts the Southern African Development Community Parliamentary Forum (SADC PF) is making in promoting good governance and in establishing benchmarks in areas such as HIV/AIDS, gender equality, and elections.  SADC is making worthwhile efforts to harmonize the political and socio-economic policies of the member states.  The Government of Canada should monitor these efforts and assess how Canada could help further them.

            Angola and Namibia went through tumultuous events – civil war and the struggle for independence – and Canada provided assistance to help them deal with these events.  The Association’s visit showed that while Angola and Namibia continue to deal with the legacy of the past and are making good progress, much remains to be done.  Though both countries remarked on Canada’s limited role in them, they continue to show good will toward Canada and would welcome an enhanced relationship, which the Association supports. 

ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

            For their help in making the visit to Angola a success, the delegation would like to thank Mr. Allan Cain, Ms. Julie Williamson, Mr. Henriques Assis, Ms. Ângela Bragança, MP, Mr. António Ventura, MP, Mr. Manuel Quarta, MP, and Mr. Amílcar Quinta. In addition, the delegation would like to thank Ambassador Barbara Richardson, Mr. Glenn Sheppy, and Mr. Philip Hannan from the Embassy of Canada in Zimbabwe, as well as Mr. Gideon Lundholm for their help in organizing the visit to Angola.

For their help in making the Namibian leg of the visit a success, the delegation would like to thank Mr. Francois Uys, Ms. Uschi Richter, Hon. Clara Bohitile, MP, Mr. Jakes Jacobs, and Mr. Immanuel Nehoya.  In addition, the delegation would like to thank High Commissioner Ruth Archibald, Mr. Andras Vamos-Goldman, Mr. Marc Labrom, and particularly Ms. Robin Mulder for their help in organizing the visit to Namibia.

Respectfully submitted,