83rd Session ORDINARY SESSION OF THE AFRICAN COMMISSION ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES' RIGHTS
INTER-SESSION ACTIVITY REPORT
OF
COMMISSIONER SOLOMON AYELE DERSSO
AS
A MEMBER OF THE AFRICAN COMMISSION;
THE CHAIRPERSON OF THE WORKING GROUP ON EXTRACTIVE
INDUSTRIES, ENVIRONMENT AND HUMAN RIGHTS VIOLATIONS IN AFRICA;
COUNTRY RAPPORTEUR;
THE FOCAL POINT FOR TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE IN AFRICA and
THE FOCAL POINT FOR HUMAN RIGHTS IN CONFLICT SITUATIONS IN
AFRICA;
THE FOCAL POINT FOR THE STUDY ON HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS AND ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE (AI), ROBOTICS AND OTHER NEW AND EMERGING TECHNOLOGIES IN AFRICA
I Introduction
1. This Report is presented in accordance with Rules 25(3) and 64 of the Rules of Procedure of the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (the Commission) (2020), and in accordance with its Resolutions: ACHPR/Res 148 (XLVI) 09; ACHPR/Res 236 (LIII) 13; ACHPR/Res 271(LV) 14; ACHPR/Res. 447 (LXVI) 20; ACHPR/Res.467 (LXVII) 20; and ACHPR/Res. 473 (EXT.OS/ XXXI) 21.
2. The Report, which is presented in seven parts, covers activities carried out, between May 2024 and November 2024 and comprises the following:
I. Activities undertaken as a Member of the Commission;
II. Activities undertaken as Chairperson of the Working Group on Extractive Industries,
Environment and Human Rights;
III. Activities undertaken as the Focal Point on Human Rights in Conflict Situation and on Transitional Justice;
IV. Activities undertaken as Country Rapporteur
V. Study on AI, new and emerging technologies and human and peoples’ rights
VI. Conclusion and Recommendations
II ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN AS A MEMBER OF THE COMMISSION
3. On 12 November 2024 in Arusha, Tanzania, as the commissioner rapporteur for Application No. 006/2012, the case before the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights, I led the delegation of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights to Arusha, Tanzania. The purpose of the mission was for representing the African Commission in the public hearing of Application No. 006/2012 – African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights v. Republic of Kenya. This hearing was convened for hearing the submission of the parties on the non-implementation of the judgement of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights on Application 006/2012. Here is the available link for details https://www.african-court.org/wpafc/african-court-sets-dealine-for-keny…;
4. Along with Hon. Commissioner Hatem Essaiem, Hon. Janet Ramatoulie Sallah-Njie, Vice Chairperson of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights; and Hon. Commissioner Litha Musyimi-Ogan, I participated in the preparatory meeting for the Inter-Sudanese Dialogue, co-convened by the AU High-Level Panel on Sudan and the IGAD Special Envoy for Sudan. This was convened on the sidelines of the AU Summit on 19 February in view of the dialogue of Sudanese civilian political groups on the convening of an inter-Sudanese political dialogue under the auspicious of the AU High-Level Panel on Sudan and the IGAD Special Envoy. Further details on the dialogue are available on the link here, https://www.peaceau.org/en/article/joint-statement-by-the-au-high-level…;
5. From 25 February to 11 March 2025, I participated in the 82nd Ordinary Session of the African Commission. Apart from presenting draft decisions on communications (human rights complaints against state parties submitted for adjudication by the Commission), my involvement covered participation in the review of various documents on the activities of the Commission including concluding observations on state reports, and various reports. Details of activities undertaken during the session are available here in the link. https://achpr.au.int/index.php/en/news/final-communiques/2025-03-13/com…;
6. Upon the invitation of the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, I delivered a keynote address on 27 March 2025 during the annual opening of the LLM and PhD programs of the Centre for Human Rights. Subsequently, I delivered lectures on the work of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Commission’s Working Group on Extractive Industries, Environment and Human Rights on 2 and 3 April 2025 to the Centre’s LLM program on International Human Rights and Democratisaiton in Africa.
7.
II. Activities undertaken as Chairperson of the Working Group on Extractive Industries,
8. I participated in the General Assembly of the African Coalition for Corporate Accountability (ACCA), held from 6–8 November 2024 in Nairobi, Kenya, under the theme ‘Human and Peoples’ Rights Implications of Climate Change: Implications for Vulnerable Groups and Corporate Accountability.’ The Assembly brought together a diverse network of human rights defenders, community-based organizations, legal experts, and policy advocates committed to promoting corporate accountability and safeguarding human and peoples’ rights across Africa.
9. 6 November 2024 as Chairperson of the Working Group on Extractive Industries, Environment and Human Rights of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, I delivered the keynote address during the opening session drawing on the soft law instruments and jurisprudence of the African Commission’s Working Group on Extractive Industries and the draft study on climate change and human and peoples’ rights. My presentation highlighted the multifaceted ways in which climate change threatens the realization of human and peoples’ rights on the continent directly through extreme weather events and indirectly through climate response measures that disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. I emphasized the urgent need for strengthened legal and institutional frameworks that prioritize the protection of marginalized communities, including indigenous Peoples, women, children, and persons with disabilities. I also drew attention to the importance of soft law instruments such as those developed by the African Commission in ensuring both state and corporate accountability in the context of extractive industries and the climate crisis. Here is the available link for details https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2024-11-08/implications-cli…;
10. On 23 April 2025, in my capacity as the Chairperson of the Working Group on Extractive Industries, Environment and Human Rights Violations (WGEI) of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, I transmitted a Letter of Urgent Appeal to His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, President of the Republic of Zambia, expressing grave concern over the hazardous lead contamination in Kabwe, Central Province, and its severe impact on the health and human rights of local communities, particularly children. The appeal highlighted alarming findings of elevated blood lead levels among children and environmental degradation resulting from ongoing mining waste activities. I urged the Government of Zambia to take immediate action by suspending hazardous operations, conducting an independent environmental and public health assessment, initiating clean-up and remediation efforts, and providing medical and livelihood support to affected populations. Here is the available link for details https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2025-04-29/statement-urgent…;
11. On 3 April 2025, I delivered a lecture to the LLM Programme on Internaitonal Human Rights and Democratisation in Africa of the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria on the work of the African Commission’s Working Group on Extractive Industries, Environment and Human Rights. Apart from introducing and providing account of the work undertaken by the Working Group, this served to enable the students of the program and others who joined to acquaint themselves with the range of human rights issues that the mandate of the Working Group.
IV ACTIVITIES UNDERTAKEN AS FOCAL POINT ON HUMAN RIGHTS IN CONFLICT SITUATIONS AND ON TRANSITIONAL JUSTICE AND HUMAN AND PEOPLES’ RIGHTS
12. In my capacity as the Focal Point on Human Rights in Conflict Situations and on Transitional Justice and Human and Peoples’ Rights and a member of the Fact-Finding Mission (FFM) on Sudan and as the Focal Point on Human Rights in Conflict Situations and Transitional Justice of the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, I participated in the oral hearings conducted as part of the FFM’s human rights investigation.
13. The hearings involved receipt of testimonies by survivors, witnesses, experts, and representatives of civil society organizations who shared their experiences and incidents highlighting serious human rights violations and abuses committed in the context of the ongoing conflict in Sudan. The sessions were conducted under strict confidentiality measures to ensure the protection and safety of all participants.
14. This was carried out along with Honourable Commissioner Hatem El-Saim, Chairperson of the Fact-Finding Mission; Honourable Commissioner Janet Sallah-Njie; and Honourable Commissioner Selma Sassi, both of whom are members of the Mission. The testimonies received during this process form part of the evidentiary basis for the next phase of the FFM, which will involve the drafting of the final report containing findings, conclusions, and recommendations for justice, accountability, and the protection of civilians in Sudan.
15. In pursuit of the implementation of African Commission’s Resolution ACHPR/Res. 485 (EXT.OS/XXXIII) 2021 deciding to commemorate the 1994 genocide against the Tutsi in Rwanda during the period of commemoration, I initiated the convening of a panel discussion as part of the 83rd session of the African Commission.
V Protection Activities undertaken during the inter-session period
16. In line with the established practice of the Commission and the Rules of Procedure of the African Commission, as Chairperson of the Working Group, I initiated various protection measures through press statements and urgent letters of appeal.
Joint Press Statements on human rights issues in Kenya
17. On 26 December 2024, in my capacity as the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Kenya, together with Honourable Commissioner Idrissa Sow, Chairperson of the Working Group on the Death Penalty, Extrajudicial, Summary or Arbitrary Killings and Enforced Disappearances in Africa, we issued a statement expressing profound alarm over reports of abductions and enforced disappearances in Kenya.
18. Together, we expressed deep concern over the reported abduction and disappearance of at least 29 individuals since June 2024, and emphasized the serious implications of such practices on the fundamental human rights guaranteed under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. In the statement, we underscored the obligations of the Government of Kenya under Articles 4, 5, and 7 of the African Charter, which protect the right to life, the right to be free from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment, and the right to a fair trial and due process.
19. We urged the Kenyan authorities to take urgent and concrete measures including launching independent investigations, ensuring accountability, strengthening institutional safeguards, and providing support and access to justice for victims and their families. The statement further called for institutional reforms to eliminate conditions enabling such violations, while reaffirming the African Commission’s commitment to supporting the Government of Kenya in upholding its human rights obligations.
Here is the available link for details:
https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2024-12-30/african-commissi…;
20. In my capacity as the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Kenya, I issued a message of condolence on 5 January 2025 following the passing of Commissioner Roseline Odhiambo Odede, Chairperson of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
Press Statement on human rights in Nigeria
21. In my capacity as the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Federal Republic of Nigeria, and pursuant to the mandate entrusted to me under Article 45 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, I issued a public statement on 8 November 2024 expressing grave concern over reports of inhuman and degrading treatment of detained persons, including minors, in connection with the protests held in August 2024.
22. The Commission received credible reports indicating that at least 76 individuals, including children as young as 14 years, had been detained in conditions that fall short of international and regional standards of human dignity and care. Of particular concern were allegations of prolonged detention in inhumane conditions, the absence of due process safeguards, and the charging of these individuals including minors with treason, an offence that may carry the death penalty.
23. In the statement, I recalled Nigeria’s obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, particularly Articles 5 and 7, and under the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child. I underscored that children must be detained only as a measure of last resort, and under conditions that uphold their dignity, safety, and well-being, including access to food, water, sanitation, medical care, and separation from adult detainees.
24. The statement called on the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to end all forms of inhuman detention, ensure an independent and transparent investigation into the allegations, uphold the rights to due process and fair trial, and guarantee that all law enforcement and prosecutorial actions comply fully with regional human rights standards. I further reiterated the Commission’s readiness to support the Government in fulfilling its human rights obligations and improving the treatment of persons in detention. Here is the available link for details :
https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2024-11-08/concern-over-rep…;
Press statement on human rights in South Sudan
25. In my capacity as the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of South Sudan, I issued a public statement on 8 March 2025 expressing grave concern over the deteriorating human rights situation in the country, particularly in Upper Nile State and Nasir County. The statement responded to alarming reports of renewed armed violence, the mobilization of armed groups, the arbitrary detention of political figures within the transitional government, and a violent attack on a United Nations aircraft, as documented by UNMISS and other human rights actors.
26. The statement condemned these developments as threats to the lives and rights of South Sudanese citizens, noting potential violations of several provisions of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, including the rights to life, liberty and security of person, freedom from arbitrary detention, due process, and peace and security.
27. I called on the Government of South Sudan and all parties to the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) to immediately cease hostilities, engage in inclusive dialogue with support from AU, UNMISS, IGAD and R-JEMC, uphold their obligations to protect civilians—particularly vulnerable groups—and accelerate transitional reforms, including the implementation of key justice and reconciliation mechanisms.
28. The statement reiterated the African Commission’s unwavering support to South Sudan in advancing peace, accountability, and respect for human and peoples’ rights, and called for strengthened support from regional and international partners for peacebuilding and implementation of the R-ARCSS. Here is the available link for details https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2025-03-11/concern-over-hum…;
29. In my capacity as the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of South Sudan and the Focal Point for Human Rights in Conflict Situations and Transitional Justice, I issued a further public statement on 27 March 2025 expressing deep alarm over the renewed outbreak of violence between government forces and forces aligned with the Sudan People’s Liberation Movement – In Opposition (SPLM-IO), and the resulting grave threats to civilian security and human rights.
30. The statement condemned the indiscriminate aerial bombings in Nasir, Ulang, and Akobo, which reportedly resulted in the deaths of at least 20 civilians and the displacement of over 84,000 people, including more than 10,000 individuals who fled into Ethiopia’s Gambella region. I expressed strong concern over the escalating violence, arbitrary detention of political figures, and the recent arrest of the First Vice President, warning that these developments could undermine the 2018 Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS) and plunge the country back into civil war.
31. I called on all parties to the R-ARCSS to immediately cease hostilities unconditionally, ensure the protection of civilians, respect the rule of law and due process, facilitate humanitarian assistance, and uphold the right to peace and security as guaranteed under Article 23 of the African Charter. The statement reaffirmed the African Commission’s commitment to closely monitoring the situation and supporting efforts to safeguard human rights and the peace process in South Sudan. Here is the available link for details https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2025-03-27/expresses-alarm-…
Press statement on human rights in Seychelles
32. In my capacity as the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Seychelles, I issued a joint statement on 6 January 2025 along with Honourable Commissioner Maria Teresa Manuela, Special Rapporteur on Prisons, Conditions of Detention, and Police Action in Africa, following reports of serious human rights concerns at Montagne Posée Prison in Seychelles on 5 December 2024. The reports detailed the deaths of two detainees and injuries sustained by others, including law enforcement personnel.
33. The statement expressed grave concern over these incidents and emphasized the Government of Seychelles’ obligations under the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Luanda Guidelines. The statement called for an immediate, independent investigation, access to justice and remedies for victims and their families, adherence to due process standards and the urgent improvement of conditions in detention facilities. Here is the available link for details https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2025-01-23/reports-treatmen…;
Letter of Commendation/Appreciation
34. Beyond the measures initiated in response to reports of violations of human rights, I initiated note of appreciation and commendation for notable steps taken for advancing human rights.
Letter of commendation to Nigeria
35. On 28 April 2025 in my capacities as the Commissioner Rapporteur on the human rights situation in the Federal Republic of Nigeria along with the Special Rapporteur on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa, Honourable Commissioner Ourveena Geereesha Topsy-Sonoo and I took note with great appreciation of the landmark judgment delivered by the Supreme Court of Nigeria in April 2025 regarding the applicability of the Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) 2011. This ruling affirmed that the FOIA applies across all tiers of government not just for Federal including state-level institutions and marked a significant milestone in reinforcing transparency, accountability, and democratic governance in Nigeria.
36. We commended the Supreme Court for upholding the principles of access to information and constitutionalism, as enshrined in Article 9 of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights. The Court’s decision reflected alignment with regional norms and standards, including the Commission’s Model Law on Access to Information in Africa and the Declaration of Principles on Freedom of Expression and Access to Information in Africa. We considered this ruling a positive precedent for advancing the right to information across the continent.
37. Furthermore, we urged the Government of the Federal Republic of Nigeria to ensure the full implementation of the Supreme Court’s decision and to foster an enabling environment for the exercise of the right of access to information, particularly at state and local levels. We reiterated the Commission’s commitment to supporting Member States in the domestication and effective application of regional legal instruments that promote good governance and inclusive civic participation.
VI Promotion activities
38. During the intersession period, I have carried out various activities in fulfillment of the promotion mandate stipulated under Article 45 (1) of the African Charter. These include the issuance of statement on advancement of rights through actions taken by states, pursuing the conduct of studies and undertaking promotion mission.
Promotion mission to the Republic of Seychelles
39. From 10 to 14 March 2025, along with Hon. Commissioner Hatem Essaiem, I led the Promotion Mission of the African Commission to the Republic of Seychelles in my capacity as the Country Rapporteur on Human Rights in the Republic of Seychelles. The mission was conducted pursuant to Article 45(1) of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and Rule 76(1) of the Commission’s Rules of Procedure. The objective of the Mission was to engage national stakeholders on the human rights situation in the country, to promote awareness of the African Charter and related instruments, and to offer recommendations for the enhancement of human rights protection and promotion in Seychelles.
40. During the course of the Mission, the delegation interacted with President of the Republic of Seychelles H.E. Wavel Ramkalawan. The delegation also held high-level consultations with a broad range of senior government officials. These included meetings with the Ministers responsible for Foreign Affairs and Tourism; Internal Affairs; Education; Employment and Social Affairs; Agriculture, Climate Change and Environment; and Health. We also engaged with the Speaker of the National Assembly, the President of the Court of Appeal, the Chief Justice, and the Attorney General. These discussions centered on measures being taken in respect to the areas of responsibility of the various government bodies and arms of government. These interactions helped identify both the advancements made in the promotion and protection of human and peoples’ rights in Seychelles and the gaps, challenges and concerns identified in terms of respect for and protection of human and peoples’ rights.
41. The delegation further held extensive meetings with stakeholders from oversight bodies and civil society, including the Leader of the Opposition in the National Assembly, the Ombudsman, the Seychelles Human Rights Commission, the Truth, Reconciliation and National Unity Commission, the Anti-Corruption Commission, the Seychelles Media Commission, the Bar Association, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, and civil society groups. A visit was also conducted to Montagne Posée Prison, the Communicable Disease Control Unit at the national hospital, and the Anse-Royale Elderly Home. These engagements provided critical insights into challenges related to freedom of expression, the right to bail, legal aid, access to justice, prison conditions, and the protection of vulnerable populations including persons with disabilities, the elderly, and migrant workers.
42. In order to ensure inclusivity and transparency, the delegation also allowed direct access to members of the public who wished to interact with members of the delegation. As a result, the head of the delegation granted audience to members of the public who requested engagement. These engagements identified additional matters including issues relating to respect for the right to bail and the non-implementation of the recommendations of the Truth and National Unity Commission for reparations.
43. The Mission observed a number of commendable steps taken for implementing human rights by the Government, including the ratification of key international instruments and robust guarantees for socio-economic rights. Of particular significance is the institutional, legislative and budgetary measures put in place most particularly in education and health sectors, the right to employment and descent working conditions, the right to social security, rehabilitation programs for inmates, and efforts to address trafficking in persons. However, the delegation noted with concern several pressing issues, lack of domestication of ratified treaties notably the conventions on refugees and the right to seek asylum, the slow pace of investigation of the violent incident during the riot at the main prison that claimed lives, concerns around the human rights risks of the Tenth Amendment Act of 2022 that allows the use of the army in law enforcement, the criminalization of petty offense, limited institutional/administrative independence of key oversight bodies such as the National Human Rights Commission and the Ombudsman, concerns over the treatment of persons on remand, shortcomings in the legal aid system affecting the rights of detained persons in remand, and concerns raised about the adverse environmental impacts of projects. Upon the conclusion of the mission, the African Commission held a press conference and issued a statement highlighting its preliminary findings and the details are available here https://achpr.au.int/en/news/press-releases/2025-03-16/press-statement-…;
Press Statement on legislative measures adopted in South Africa
44. On 6 May 2025, the country rapporteur issued a statement on the adoption of the Basic Education Laws Amendment Act of South Africa. The statement acknowledges the contribution of the Act to strengthening the protection and promotion of rights enshrined in the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, notably Articles 2 on non-discrimination, 17 on the right to education, and 18 particularly on the elimination of all forms of discrimination and protection of the rights of the child. The statement noted, among others, the Act’s provisions promoting linguistic inclusivity and social justice in public education, thereby redressing legacies of racial and socio-economic exclusion.
45. On 7 May 2025, the country rapporteur issued a statement on the adoption of the enactment and entry into force of the Expropriation Act, 2025. The statement acknowledges the Act as a significant legislative milestone in the realization of land justice and socio-economic rights, in accordance with the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights, particularly Articles 14, 21, and 22. It also expressed the African Commission’s Solidarity with the efforts of South Africa as it strives to advance socio-economic justice and equitable access to land. These reforms mark a vital step toward addressing the deeply entrenched structural inequalities arising from colonial and apartheid-era land dispossession.
VII Study on AI, new and emerging technologies and human and peoples’ rights
46. During the intersession period, I initiated, with support from the expert assisting the Focal Person in the development of the Study, and filed a submission to the Secretary-General of the United Nations on 11 April 2025 on ‘Artificial Intelligence in the Military Domain and its implications for international peace and security’ in respect of which he extended invitation for input. The purpose of this submission is to ensure that the views from Africa are represented and reflected in the consideration of this subject by the UN with due regard to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights.
47. Following the consultation meeting held for updating the draft study on 30 and 1st October 2024 in Kigali, Rwanda, in my capacity as focal point of the study on AI, new and emerging technologies and human and peoples’ rights, I worked with the team for incorporating the inputs received during the consultation meeting. As a follow up, a public Call for Input on the Draft Study was issued inviting written submissions from all interested stakeholders by 8 May 2025. The input process is intended to ensure that the final study reflects diverse perspectives and reinforces human rights protection in the context of AI and emerging technologies in Africa. Here is the available link for details https://achpr.au.int/en/news/announcements/2025-04-08/call-input-study-…;
IX. Conclusion and Recommendations
48. The various activities undertaken in relation to the WGEI and the review of the periodic review of states parties during the 83rd session highlight the need for increased engagement in the popularization of the State Reporting Guidelines and Principles on Articles 21 and 24 of the African Charter. We are concerned about the lack of resources that impeded convening of the meeting of the working group and implementation of the priorities of the Working Group.
49. The Working Group is keen for collaboration and support for taking forward some of the pending priorities of the strategic plan of the WGEI including the development of the web-based for tracking, documentation and reporting tool (tracker) for a systematic gathering, analysis and response to human and peoples’ rights and environmental issues arising in the extractive industries in Africa and the activation of the process for the development of the instrument requested in the ACPR resolution 550 on Business and Human Rights.
On Human Rights in Conflict Situations and Transitional Justice
50. Urge all parties to armed conflicts especially in Sudan and South Sudan to cease hostilities immediately and unconditionally, and to comply fully with International Humanitarian Law (IHL) and International Human Rights Law (IHRL), particularly in relation to civilian protection, the prohibition of arbitrary detention, and respect for due process.
51. Call for enhanced regional and international cooperation including with the AU, IGAD, UNMISS, and RJMEC to support peacebuilding, inclusive dialogue, and prevent the collapse of the Revitalized Agreement on the Resolution of the Conflict in South Sudan (R-ARCSS).
52. Recommend that Member States support the African Commission’s Fact-Finding Missions and ensure access to affected areas, protection of witnesses, and implementation of findings and recommendations related to justice, accountability, and transitional reform.
On Environmental Justice and Corporate Accountability
53. Urge Member States to adopt and enforce legal and institutional frameworks that hold corporations accountable for environmental harm and human rights violations, particularly in extractive industries.
54. Recommend immediate remedial and preventive measures in cases of environmental disaster, such as in Kabwe, Zambia, including suspension of hazardous activities, independent environmental assessments, institutional reform and medical redress for affected populations.
55. Encourage the integration of soft law instruments, particularly the State Reporting Guidelines and Principles on Articles 21 and 24 of the African Charter, into national regulatory systems to strengthen the protection of vulnerable communities from climate and corporate-induced harm.
Due process in and respect for rights during protests
56. Recommend urgent reform of detention practices in Member States, particularly Nigeria and Seychelles, to ensure compliance with the Luanda Guidelines and the African Charter, including humane treatment, due process safeguards, and appropriate conditions for detained minors.
57. Encourage States to conduct prompt, independent investigations into allegations of enforced disappearances and extrajudicial practices, such as those reported in Kenya, and to provide effective remedies for victims and their families.
On ensuring social justice and equality through legislative reform
58. Urge the Government of South Africa to build upon its progressive legislative steps such as the Basic Education Amendment Act by continuing to prioritize education access, prohibit corporal punishment comprehensively, and advance rights-based approaches to policy reform.
59. Encourage Member States to emulate South Africa’s efforts by developing comprehensive Human Rights Acts that institutionalize protections against racism, xenophobia, and gender-based violence.
60. Call on national authorities, particularly in Seychelles and South Sudan, to ensure protection for vulnerable populations including detainees, children, women, Indigenous peoples, migrants, and persons with disabilities.
On AI and other new technologies and Human and Peoples’ Rights
61. Urge Member States, NHRIs, CSOs and the wider African public to engage proactively with the African Commission’s study on artificial intelligence (AI) and emerging technologies by submitting evidence-based inputs and adopting a human rights-centred approach to AI and other new technology governance.
62. Urge stakeholders to ensure that technological innovation aligns with the principles of transparency, accountability, and equity, and that AI does not exacerbate digital divides or systemic discrimination.
