DAR ES SALAAM, July 28 -- ACROSS Africa, a new policy proposal is generating intense debate among governments, legal experts, healthcare professionals, religious leaders, civil society organisations and development partners.

Known as the ‘Draft African Charter on Family, Sovereignty and Values, the proposal seeks to promote African family values, cultural identity, parental responsibility and national sovereignty.

Supporters view the Charter as a timely response to growing concerns that African societies should define their own moral and social values without undue external influence.

They argue that it reinforces the central role of the family, protects children and upholds Africas cultural heritage.

Critics, however, contend t...