The Chief of Africa Affairs of IHRC Geneva, Amb. Dr. Tivlumun Innocent Ahure, has issued a call to action to African leaders attending the African Union and United Nations sessions. Citing recent crises in the Democratic Republic of Congo, including massive flooding and inhumane detention conditions, Dr. Ahure emphasized the need for collective action to protect human rights across the continent.
The United Nations Secretary-General, António Guterres, has echoed similar sentiments, calling for justice, dignity, and equality for people of African descent worldwide. He emphasized the importance of acknowledging the rights and contributions of people of African descent, recognizing the “long shadows” of slavery and colonialism that persist in systemic racism, unequal economies, and societies.
The IHRC Geneva is accredited by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) that has been actively engaged in promoting human rights across the continent. Dr. Ahure notes that ACHPR’s recent consultations with the African Union Peace and Security Council (PSC) have highlighted the importance of mainstreaming human rights in conflict prevention, management, and resolution. The ACHPR has also launched investigations into human rights situations in countries like Sudan and South Sudan.
The IHRC is convinced that by working together, African leaders can create a more just and equitable society for all Africans, upholding the principles of human dignity and the rule of law.