Midrand. Meeting in Midrand, South Africa, during the Sixth Ordinary Session of its Sixth Legislature, Members of the Pan-African Parliament (PAP) made history by adopting two landmark legislative frameworks: the Model Law on Sustainable Soil Management in Africa and the Model Law on Gender Equality and Equity. These groundbreaking instruments mark a major step torwards sustainable development, social justice and legislative harmonization across Africa. 

The Model Law on Sustainable Soil Management establishes a comprehensive framework to help Member States protect and restore Africa’s most vital resource: its soils. Designed to promote sustainable use, boost soil fertility and combat degradation, the Model Law lays the foundation for food security and nutrition, climate resilience and the pursuit of Land Degradation Neutrality. Among its key innovations are Soil Impact Assessments, enhanced data systems, public participation mechanisms, and the integration of Indigenous Peoples’ knowledge and gender-responsive principles. 

Complementing this environmental focus, the Model Law on Gender Equality and Equity provides Member States with a harmonized, adaptable framework that can strengthen national legislation in line with global and African Union (AU) commitments. Setting out guidance on equality in education, nutrition, economic empowerment, and political participation, the Model Law recognizes gender equality as a cornerstone of inclusive and sustainable development. 

Both model laws reaffirm the PAP’s mandate to harmonize African legislation. Their adoption reflects a participatory and consultative process, ensuring that the voices and aspirations of African citizens shape the continent’s evolving legal and policy landscape. 

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) played an active role by providing expert inputs and evidence-based guidance throughout the technical consultations that led to the development of the model laws. FAO supported drafting teams and PAP Committees to ensure that these legislative frameworks align with international best practices while remaining firmly rooted in African priorities and realities.