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The African Parliamentary Network on Illicit Financial Flows and Taxation (APNIFFT) executive council has resolved to enhance the quality and impact of its work at the national, regional, and continental levels, shifting from numerical expansion to deepening legislative influence and governance reforms.
This was during the APNIFFT Executive Council Meeting held in Cape Town, South Africa, from 6 to 7 February 2025, where members reflected on the network’s achievements over the past decade and strategised on the next phase of parliamentary action against illicit financial flows (IFFs) and debt sustainability.
The meeting was organised by APNIFFT, Tax Justice Network Africa (TJNA), and the African Forum and Network on Debt and Development (AFRODAD). It provided a platform for parliamentarians and partners to align on key global priorities, including preparations for the Fourth International Conference on Financing for Development (FFD4), the UN Tax Convention process, and opportunities presented by South Africa's G20 presidency.
Speaking during the meeting, APNIFFT’s Chairperson, Hon. Khanyisile Litchfield-Tshabalala emphasised the need for structured parliamentary action to address Africa’s fiscal governance challenges and reinforce the role of lawmakers in tackling IFFs.
“APNIFFT has demonstrated the power of coordinated parliamentary action in tackling IFFs and promoting sound economic governance across Africa. As we mark our 10th anniversary, our focus is on equipping national caucuses with tools and legislative models to strengthen their advocacy and legislative efforts,” She added.
Additionally, bilateral meetings were held with key South African officials to reinforce APNIFFT’s engagement with policymakers. Hon. Thoko Didiza, Speaker of Parliament, expressed strong support for the APNIFFT South Africa caucus and its legislative agenda, while Mr. Mogamad Ganief Ebrahim Hendricks, Deputy Minister of Social Development and a long-term APNIFFT member who has raised several motions on IFFs in Parliament, pledged to continue using his office to champion the fight against IFFs and support APNIFFT initiatives.
Since its inception, APNIFFT has emerged as a transformative force in the fight against illicit financial flows (IFFs) across the continent. By harnessing the energy, expertise, and resolve of national caucuses, APNIFFT has not only catalysed legislative reforms at the national level but has also shaped regional and international policy dialogues. The achievements of these caucuses show the power of coordinated parliamentary action in tackling IFFs and promoting sound economic governance across Africa.
For more information about APNIFFT, please contact Francis Kairu at fkairu[@]taxjusticeafrica.net.