By: Alieu Ceesay
The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) concluded its 83rd Ordinary Public Session on May 22, 2025, at the Sir Dawda Kairaba Jawara International Conference Centre in Banjul, The Gambia, with a resounding call for enhanced human rights protections across the continent. The three-week session, co-chaired by Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, Gambia’s Minister of Information, on behalf of Dawda A. Jallow, Attorney-General and Minister of Justice, and Commissioner Remy Goyilumbu, Chairperson of the ACHPR, fostered critical discussions on Africa’s human rights landscape.
The session, supported by Hon. Solomon Ayerle Desi, featured contributions from international and regional stakeholders, including the Deputy Representative of the United Nations Office of West Africa and the Sahel, the UN Special Rapporteur on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, and the West Africa Regional Office of the International Committee of the Red Cross. Eleven national human rights institutions also presented reports on conditions in their respective countries, highlighting challenges and progress.
A key focus of the session was a panel addressing violence against human rights defenders, emphasizing the need for stronger safeguards. Other discussions centered on strengthening legal frameworks, promoting human rights education, and fostering inclusive dialogue to empower marginalized communities and ensure accountability for violations.
In his closing remarks, Chairperson Remy Goyilumbu stressed the urgency of translating discussions into concrete actions. “We will use this platform to draw recommendations and formulate actions to improve Africa’s human rights situation,” he said, acknowledging the absence of a “model country” in terms of human rights. He urged the Secretariat to compile and assess statements made during the session to guide future efforts.
Goyilumbu underscored the ACHPR’s role as a vital forum for collaboration among governments, civil society, and other stakeholders. “This platform is a structure through which we can address the chaotic human rights situations across all countries,” he noted, expressing optimism about building a better future for human rights in Africa through collective action.
Information Minister Dr. Ismaila Ceesay, deputizing for the Gambia’s Minister of Justice, calls for unity in advancing human rights. “Government, civil society, national institutions, and individuals must unite to strengthen legal frameworks, promote human rights education, and foster inclusive dialogue,” he stated. He emphasized empowering marginalized voices, protecting vulnerable communities, and ensuring accountability for victims of violations.
The 83rd session reaffirmed the ACHPR’s pivotal role within the African Union’s framework, promoting unity, peace, and shared values. As Africa grapples with ongoing human rights challenges, including violence against defenders and systemic inequalities, the session highlighted the importance of sustained collaboration and actionable recommendations.
The Gambia’s session hosting underscores its longstanding commitment to the ACHPR, which has been headquartered in Banjul since its establishment in 1987. The Commission continues to serve as a cornerstone for advancing human rights across the continent, advocating for justice, equality, and accountability. As stakeholders depart Banjul, the call for unified action resonates, with hopes that the session’s outcomes will drive meaningful progress in protecting human rights for all Africans.
