Prominent Gambian legal scholar and human rights expert Dr. Satang Nabaneh has officially taken her oath of office as a member of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), marking a significant milestone for The Gambia in continental efforts to protect children’s rights.
During the opening ceremony of the 47th Ordinary Session of the ACERWC in Maseru, Lesotho, newly elected and re-elected members of the Committee were sworn in. Hon. Dr. Nabaneh, who was elected earlier this year, is now formally part of the body responsible for monitoring the implementation of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child.
Dr. Nabaneh, a distinguished academic, feminist activist, and advocate for child rights, gender equality, and legal reform, was elected to the ACERWC in February 2026 during the 48th Ordinary Session of the African Union Executive Council in Addis Ababa, where she secured strong support with 43 votes. Her selection reflects growing recognition of Gambian expertise in African human rights mechanisms and is described as a historic first for the University of The Gambia’s law faculty.
As Director of Programs at the University of Dayton’s Human Rights Center and with extensive experience in child rights protection across Africa, Dr. Nabaneh brings deep knowledge of policy development, advocacy, and the promotion of children’s rights and welfare. Her work has focused on issues including harmful practices, social justice, and strengthening the African human rights system.
The ACERWC, established under articles 32–46 of the African Charter on the Rights and Welfare of the Child, plays a critical role in advancing Agenda 2040: “The Africa We Want” for children, often encapsulated in the theme #AfricaFit4Children.
Dr. Nabaneh’s swearing-in comes as the Committee convenes its 47th session from April 17–25, 2026, in Lesotho, where members will engage in dialogues on key child rights issues across the continent.
Her appointment is widely viewed as a boost for The Gambia’s visibility in African Union institutions and a testament to the country’s commitment to children’s rights. Supporters, including Gambian civil society organizations and government ministries, have congratulated her, expressing confidence that her tenure will contribute meaningfully to protecting vulnerable children and advancing legal reforms.
Dr. Nabaneh is expected to serve a term spanning 2026–2031, during which she will help shape policies and monitor progress in child welfare across AU member states.
