The annual conference of the Association of African Senates concluded on Thursday, April 9, 2026, in Rabat, Kingdom of Morocco.

Held under the theme: “The contribution of Upper Houses of Parliaments to strengthening democracy and preserving peace in Africa,” the meeting provided an opportunity for participating delegations to exchange views on issues related to the consolidation of democracy across the continent.

Following a closed-door session during this second day, the Presidents and representatives of the Upper Houses adopted major statutory reforms, including changes to membership admission procedures, the establishment of a two-year presidential term, and adjustments to the administrative organization and functioning of sessions, with the introduction of an annual meeting and a biennial conference of Presidents.

At the end of a successful term leading the Association of African Senates, Mrs. Kandia Camara handed over leadership to Mr. Mohamed Ould Errachid, President of the House of Councillors of the Kingdom of Morocco, who becomes the new President of the Association. The Ivorian Senate President has been elevated to the status of Honorary President.

Furthermore, the Secretary General of the Association will be that of the Upper House of the host country, namely Côte d’Ivoire, while the Deputy Secretary General will come from the country holding the rotating presidency. The Treasurer will be appointed by the Conference upon proposal of the Association’s President.

It is worth noting that between October 2024 and April 2026, membership of the Association has doubled, rising from about ten to around twenty countries, with members coming from all regions of Africa and reflecting linguistic diversity, including Arabic-, English-, French-, and Portuguese-speaking countries.