Today, 14th of May 2024, the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights (ACHPR) convened its highly successful 79th Ordinary Session, a significant milestone in the ongoing quest for human rights advancement across Africa. Conducted in a hybrid format, this Ordinary Session represented a crucial moment for the continent. Guided by the skillful AG Secretary to the Commission, Abiola Idowu-Ojo, who directed the programme, the opening ceremony reverberated with a passionate commitment to fostering collaboration, unity, and the protection and promotion of human rights.
Distinguished speakers from diverse backgrounds who graced the opening ceremony, each offering unique perspectives and contributions to drive discussions forward included:
- Mme Hannah Forster: Executive Director of the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies.
- Advocate Joseph Whittal: Representing the Network of National Human Rights Institutions, emphasizing the significance of partnerships between governmental and non-governmental entities in nurturing a human rights culture.
- S.E Olof Skoog: Special Representative of the European Union for Human Rights.
- Mme Maymuchka Lauristone: Regional Representative of the UN High Commissioner for Human Rights.
- Honorable Djidda Mamar Mahamat: Serving as the 4th Vice-President of the Pan-African Parliament.
- Honorable Judge Modibo Sakho: Vice-President of the African Court on Human and Peoples' Rights.
- S.E Madame Khadijetou Mbareck Fall: Ambassador of Mauritania to Ethiopia and President of the Committee of Permanent Representatives, representing African states' commitments to human rights principles.
- Honorable Commissioner Rémy Ngoy Lumbu: Leading the African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights.
- S.E Mamadou Tangara: Minister of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of The Gambia.
The gathering of these diverse viewpoints emphasizes a collective commitment to safeguard and advance human rights, integral to African governance and advancement. The 79th Ordinary Session is set to continue until June 3rd, with public sessions concluding on May 24th.
Register here to join the session: https://tinyurl.com/prnezx5e
