Yaoundé gears up to welcome global parliamentary leaders for historic francophone assembly
The countdown has begun for Cameroon’s capital to host the 51st session of the Assemblée parlementaire de la Francophonie (APF), a gathering that will bring together hundreds of delegates from across the globe. With preparations now in full swing, organizers have announced that over 300 participants are expected, including parliamentary leaders, young delegates, and high-profile figures from the francophone world.
The event, scheduled to take place in two weeks, will see delegates arriving from all four APF regions: Africa, the Americas, Asia-Pacific, and Europe. Among the anticipated attendees are Amelia Lakrafi, APF’s General Delegate, and Louise Mouchoukiwabo, Secretary-General of the Organisation Internationale de la Francophonie (OIF). So far, 275 participants have already registered for the session.
Organizing committee outlines ambitious plans for the historic event
The organizing committee, led by Hilarion Etong, a Deputy and President of Cameroon’s APF section, has been working tirelessly since January 2026. Comprising members from both the Senate and National Assembly, the committee has established 17 specialized subcommittees to handle every aspect of the event, from logistics to security. Eight hotels of varying standards have been secured to accommodate participants.
Key themes to dominate discussions at the francophone parliamentary summit
The sessions will revolve around two critical themes designed to spark meaningful dialogue and policy recommendations. The first, “Multilateralism and State Sovereignty,” will explore the challenges of rising protectionism and the collective response of francophone nations to issues like terrorism, migration flows, and democratic instability. The second theme, “Francophone Parliaments and Climate Action in a Changing World,” will focus on translating international climate agreements into national legislation.
A packed agenda awaits participants in Yaoundé
The program kicks off on July 7, 2026, with the APF Bureau meeting, followed by sessions for the Young Parliamentarians’ Network and the Women Parliamentarians’ Network on July 8. That same day, bureau members will embark on an excursion to the Nachtigal site. The following day, July 9, will see the four permanent APF commissions hold their meetings in preparation for the official opening on July 10. The sessions will conclude on Saturday, July 11, 2026.
