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Zambia has endorsed the launch of the Africa Diplomatic Indaba on Migration and Mobility in its capacity as Chairperson of the Specialized Technical Committee for Migration, Refugees and Internally Displaced Persons.
Home Affairs and Internal Security Minister, Jack Mwiimbu, said Zambia had noted with concern Africa’s narrative on migration which had often been overshadowed by external viewpoints and misconceptions.
Mwiimbu said this in a speech read on his behalf by Zambia’s Ambassador to Ethiopia, Rose Sakala, during the launch of the African Diplomatic Indaba on Migration and Mobility (ADI) in Addis Ababa on Wednesday.
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This is according to a statement issued in Lusaka by Inutu Mwanza, the First Secretary for Press and Tourism at the Zambian Embassy in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia on Wednesday.
“The Indaba would serve as a catalyst to change the narrative on migration and allow Africa to present its perspective, experiences and policy orientations on the global stage,” he said.
Mwiimbu said Zambia endorsed the launch of the Indaba because the initiative would enhance the collective ability to address migration challenges.
He noted that it could also strengthen Africa’s representation in International fora and utimately contribute to the realization of the AU Agenda 2063.
“Migration was an issue of profound significance to Africa hence the need for concerted efforts and unwavering attention to the challenges and opportunities associated with it,” Mwiimbu said.
International Organization for Migration (IOM) Director General, Amy Pope said migration was part of the human experience and at the heart of civilization.
She said there were many reasons that migration takes place and, if done properly, could contribute to prosperity and innovation.
“This could contribute to exchange of ideas on development but if not done well, it can lead to exploitation and slavery,” Pope warned.
African Union Commission Deputy Chairperson, Monique Nsanzabaganwa, said the initiative to launch the African Diplomatic Indaba would position Africa to negotiate and advance the African Policy position pertaining to migration with one voice.
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