Published on: October 23, 2024
Today is Africa Human Rights Day.
Observed annually on 21 October, it marks the 1986 entry into force of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (also known as the Banjul Charter), the founding treaty of the African human and peoples’ rights system.This landmark achievement laid the groundwork for a comprehensive human rights framework uniquely tailored to the African context. As Africa was largely absent in 1948 when the United Nations adopted the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, it is a significant historical response to the Western notion of universal human rights, addressing fundamental issues such as colonialism, discrimination and socio-economic rights.The Organisation of African Unity (OAU), the predecessor to the African Union, first proposed the Charter in July 1979, and adopted it in June 1981. The Charter established the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, based in Banjul, The Gambia, to oversee its implementation and ensure that states adhere to their human rights obligations. The Commission is responsible for promoting human rights, interpreting the Charter and investigating violations across the continent.
Africa Human Rights Day reinforces the significance of the Charter, and highlights efforts to build a just and equitable society where human rights are respected and upheld. It provides a platform for reflection, and serves as a reminder of both the progress made and the challenges in achieving universal human rights on the continent. Issues such as gender inequality, freedom of expression, political repression, discrimination and the closing of civic space continue to persist in various parts of Africa, making the fight for human rights more relevant than ever.
This day also allows governments, NGOs and the international community to renew their commitment to protecting human rights and working together toward sustainable solutions. By emphasising the importance of human rights, the day reinforces the belief that respect for human dignity, equality, and justice is fundamental to developing a peaceful and prosperous continent.
As Africa continues to confront its unique human rights challenges, the observance of this day acts as a call to action for all stakeholders to engage in meaningful dialogue, and take tangible steps to create a society where human rights are not just ideals, but a lived reality for all Africans.
African NGOs played a critical role in the fight against colonialism and apartheid, and today, they are at the forefront of the struggle to promote and protect human rights across the continent. They play a pivotal role in building a culture of human rights in Africa by raising awareness, advocating for policy change, providing legal and humanitarian support, and holding authorities accountable. Despite facing significant challenges, including political repression and restrictions, limited resources and security risks, their dedication and resilience have made them powerful agents for change.
The following profiles highlight the work of 23 African NGOs that focus on human rights issues at the national, regional and pan-African levels. They are from 13 African countries: Cameroon, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi, Nigeria, Rwanda, Sierra Leone, South Africa, Tanzania, The Gambia, Uganda and Zimbabwe.
(Please note: These profiles exclude any international NGOs operating in Africa or African NGOs focussing primarily on human rights defenders. The latter will be covered separately in the future. Also, the respective organisations provided the information for the profiles and was not generated from any other sources.)
# Campaign for Human Rights and Development International (CHRDI) (Sierra Leone)
“On Africa Human Rights Day, let’s reflect on the fundamental importance of human rights for everyone. Let’s make them our daily guide in pursuing justice, equality, peace and freedom for all. The day provides an opportunity for deeper reflection, evaluation and a recommitment to the vital promise made by African leaders and the people of Africa to uphold and safeguard human rights.” Abdul Fatoma, Chief Executive Officer, CHRDI
CHRDI utilises rights-based voice and accountability approaches to bridge the justice and social equity gaps. It seeks to promote social justice principles and policies and support and conduct nonpartisan research, education and informational activities to increase public awareness of good governance, human rights and human security. Founded in 2011, CHRDI envisions a world where everyone enjoys human rights and lives with dignity, equality and justice.
CHRDI operates across Sierra Leone, and its programmes cover policy advocacy and promoting human rights for all citizens, especially their rights to development.
and peace history records. By effectively archiving and digitally preserving the records of the Special Court of Sierra Leone (SCSL) and the Truth and Reconciliation Commission, CHRDI ensured that this crucial part of Sierra Leone’s political past was not lost. This initiative is a testament to CHRDI’s commitment to preserving history and promoting justice.
CHRDI is nationally and internationally recognised for its work towards the African Union’s objectives. In 2023, it hosted and facilitated two key events, namely the National Stakeholders’ Dialogue on the General Elections of Sierra Leone and Popularisation and Awareness Raising on the ECOSOCC National Chapters and the AU-ECOSOCC training of trainers for CSOs on information-gathering, conflict analysis and early warning responses.
CHRDI holds special consultative status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) and is accredited to many UN agencies.
# Centre for Health Human Rights and Development (CEHURD) (Uganda)
“Africa Human Rights Day reminds us about the many social injustices communities on the continent continue to face. It gives us a strong reason to continue with our work of addressing such injustices within health systems and holding the State accountable to the obligation of promoting and protecting the human rights of citizens, particularly for those who are powerless and most vulnerable.” Fatia Kiyange, Executive Director, CEHURD
CEHURD was founded in 2009 to advance social justice in health and human rights in Uganda and East Africa. It is pioneering the justiciability of the right to health by advancing the health rights of vulnerable communities through litigation, advocacy, and action research.
CEHURD’s strategic objectives are promoting sustainable access to justice in health, positioning health and human rights as a critical strategy for sustainable development, enhancing institutional and programmatic growth through knowledge management, building community capacities and agency on health and human rights, and strengthening institutional capacity to deliver on its mandate as well as the capacities of its partners.
CEHURD’s target constituencies include children and youth, women and girls, sexual minorities, persons living with disabilities, refugees, people living with HIV/AIDS and TB, the elderly, survivors of violence, and people living in hard-to-reach locations. Its interventions cut across all components of health systems strengthening, with a significant focus on sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR).
CEHURD addresses the social injustices within the healthcare system, including health rights violations at all levels, to ensure that all people, especially the most vulnerable, enjoy the right to health without discrimination, stigma, or exclusion. Its interventions seek to impact the health system and other social systems to better respond to the population’s health needs and improve health outcomes.
CEHURD employs a multifaceted approach, including strategic litigation to address systemic and structural challenges and barriers in health systems; legal aid services for health rights violations; legal and policy advocacy to position health at the centre of the country’s development agenda; legal empowerment of rights holders and duty bearers as well as social accountability; research and learning; media capacity strengthening; and social movement building and institutional development for community-based organisations with shared goals and objectives. CEHURD works at the national, regional, district and community levels and seeks to impact government systems and structures, laws and policies, health practices and services, and change social norms and practices that affect the realisation of social justice in health and human rights. It has contributed towards regional and global health development agendas.
Over the 15 years, CEHURD has set precedents on the right to health, contributed to changes in the legal and policy environment, championed the generation and utilisation of evidence to improve laws and policies as well as health care service delivery, empowered communities to demand and access health care and human rights services and contributed towards building a social movement on health, human rights and SRHR. Its most significant contribution so far has been around SRHR with ground-breaking and impactful litigations on maternal health, sexuality education, sexual gender-based violence and addressing stigma and discrimination for PLHIV. Its cases have informed national law and defined greater rights for its target constituencies
In 2023, CEHURD’s commitment to gender equality was recognised when it won the inaugural award from Nation Media for its leadership in the implementation of gender transformative approaches in the workplace. This award is a testament to CEHURD’s dedication to promoting gender equality in all aspects of its work.
CEHURD is a member of several regional and global social justice and health rights networks and committees. Some of those at the regional level include the East and Southern Africa Regional Network for Equity (EQUINET), the Men Engage Africa Alliance and the Africa Digital Health Alliance (ADHA). At the global level, it is involved in the UN Health imPACT Coalition for the Summit of the Future, Girls Not Brides Global Partnership to End Child Marriage, Global Child Marriage Advisory Group and the Alliance on the Framework Convention on Global Health (FCGH Alliance).
# Centre for Human Rights (CHR) (South Africa)
“Africa Human Rights Day provides an opportunity to reflect on the achievements and the many challenges remaining for the realisation of human rights on the continent.” Prof Magnus Killander, CHR
CHR is an internationally recognised university-based institution that combines academic excellence and effective activism to advance human rights, particularly in Africa, through education, research and advocacy.
CHR was established in 1986 in the Faculty of Law at the University of Pretoria in South Africa as part of domestic efforts against the apartheid system of the time. Some of its members participated in meetings with the liberation movements outside South Africa’s borders, organised conferences and participated in efforts to promote human rights in South Africa, and, when the transition came, served as technical advisors in the constitution-writing process.
Over the years, CHR’s focus has expanded to cover a wide range of human rights issues in Africa and international development law. It serves as a hub for a network of practising and academic lawyers, national and international civil servants, and human rights practitioners across Africa. A growing number of CHR graduates are making significant contributions to the advancement of human rights and democracy and the strengthening of institutions in Africa and beyond.
Today, CHR is uniquely positioned as both an academic department and a non-governmental organisation. It is actively involved in training and advocacy across the African continent and engagement with the regional African human rights system. As a leader in human rights education, CHR works towards a greater awareness of human rights, the wide dissemination of publications on human rights in Africa, and the improvement of the rights of women, persons with disabilities, migrants, indigenous peoples, sexual minorities and other disadvantaged or marginalised persons or groups across the continent.
CHR has received several prestigious awards in recognition of its significant contributions. In 2006, it was honoured with the UNESCO Prize for Human Rights Education, which recognised its African Human Rights Moot Court Competition and the LLM/MPhil in Human Rights and Democratization in Africa. In 2012, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights bestowed upon CHR its Human Rights Prize for civil society organisations.
# Centre for Human Rights and Democracy in Africa (CHRDA) (Cameroon)
“Africa Human Rights Day serves as a reminder of the importance of promoting and protecting human rights in Africa. CHRDA joins the continent in celebrating this significant day, reaffirming our commitment to advancing human rights and social justice.” Violet Fokum, Executive Director, CHRDA
CHRDA was founded in 2005 to promote, protect and respect human rights and democracy and ensure good governance.
CHRDA tirelessly works to advance human rights and social justice. Its commitment to human rights is evident in its efforts to promote and protect human rights, democracy, and the rule of law. It calls for action on pressing human rights issues, such as the immediate release of wrongly detained activists.
CHRDA holds consultative status with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), demonstrating its commitment to promoting human rights at the continental level. CHRDA is part of the Civil Society Working Group on Women, Peace and Security (WPS) to improve the flow of information and analyses to the Political Affairs, Peace and Security (PAPS) and the Peace and Security Council of the African Union. It also provides a regional platform for sustained knowledge sharing and best practices on implementing the WSP Agenda in Africa. CHRDA engages with the United Nations Human Rights Council through its submissions to the Universal Periodic Review (UPR).
CHRDA strives to create a more just and equitable society for all Africans by working with local, national, regional and international partners.CHRDA partners with various international organisations, diplomatic missions and foundations, including the US, Canadian, French and German embassies in Yaoundé, British High Commission in Yaoundé, Swiss Peace, Open Society Foundations, United Nations Democracy Fund, United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime, United Nations Voluntary Fund for Victims of Torture, National Endowment for Democracy, CIVICUS, Urgent Action Fund for Africa, Femmes Actantes, Raoul Wallenberg Foundation, Friedrich Ebert Stiftung, Mission 21, Christian Blind Mission, United Nations Refugee Agency and the World Organisation Against Torture.Through these partnerships, CHRDA implements various programmes focused on human rights monitoring, documentation and reporting, education and training, advocacy and policy engagement, legal aid, community development and empowerment, research and documentation. These initiatives address pressing human rights concerns in Africa, including the promotion of gender equality, combating sexual and gender-based violence, and supporting humanitarian actions for refugees, victims of torture and trafficking, and internally displaced persons.
# Centre for Human Rights Education Advice and Assistance (CHREAA) (Malawi)
“For CHREAA, Africa Human Rights Day is a critical moment to reaffirm its mission of advocating for justice, dignity and the protection of marginalised groups in Malawi. The day emphasises the importance of CHREAA’s work in promoting the rights of vulnerable populations, such as women and children facing sexual violence, street-connected youth and the LGBTQI+ community. It highlights our ongoing efforts to strengthen civic freedoms, provide legal support, and advocate for systemic change. This day inspires CHREAA to continue its vital role in ensuring that every Malawian’s fundamental rights are recognised, protected and respected.” Victor Mhango, Executive Director, CHREAA
CHREAA promotes and protects human rights by assisting vulnerable and marginalised people in Malawi in accessing justice through civic education, advocacy, legal advice and assistance. Founded in 2002 and registered in 2006, it envisions a Malawian society that upholds human rights, justice and the rule of law.
CHREAA provides paralegal services, advocates for law reforms, enhances governance, promotes human rights and conducts research. Its key achievements include improving access to justice for vulnerable populations, such as women, youth and prisoners, through various legal aid projects. CHREAA has successfully lobbied for the decriminalisation of vagrancy laws, supported legal reforms around sexual and gender-based violence, and spearheaded strategic litigation to protect marginalised groups. Additionally, CHREAA has made significant strides in enhancing prison conditions, particularly in health, education and psychosocial support. Its efforts have reduced the remand population in prisons by over 40%, reduced infection of diseases by 30% and ensured speedy trials for juveniles.
CHREAA’s influence in the human rights field is underscored by its observer status with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights and its membership in the Judicial Core Group. The latter was established by Malawi’s Chief Justice to alleviate prison congestion and includes Judges of the High Court, Chief Residents Magistrates, and Registrars of the High Court and Law Society, with CHREAA being the sole civil society organisation in the group. In 2021, CHREAA was nominated as a member of the Government Citizen Engagement Forum, “Pabwalo”, a platform designed to facilitate dialogue between citizens and the government on various issues. Furthermore, CHREAA’s Executive Director is a member of the Malawi Prisons Inspectorate.
# Consortium of Ethiopian Human Rights Organisations (CEHRO) (Ethiopia)
“Africa Human Rights Day is a significant commemoration highlighting the importance of human rights values in Africa. CEHRO honours those human rights defenders and organisations who have fallen for fighting injustices. We are dedicated to advancing human rights protection and promotion in Africa and beyond.” Mesud Gebeyehu, Executive Director, CEHRO
CEHRO is a network of 30 civil society organisations (CSOs) established in 2018 to promote and protect human rights in Ethiopia. With the vision to see everyone in Ethiopia and beyond enjoy dignity, CEHRO’s mission is to evolve as a vibrant platform of member CSOs that, along with other partners, meaningfully influence efforts to safeguard, support and promote the core values and governance of human rights, democracy and peace-building in Ethiopia and beyond.
CEHRO’s programmes and interventions are guided by three distinct but mutually reinforcing pillars, namely capacity development, coordination and promoting civic space, and strategic advocacy. It engages in capacity-building of the secretariat, its members and key stakeholders, including other like-minded CSOs, government stakeholders and the private sector. CEHRO is at the forefront of coordinating members’ strategic engagements to amplify unified voices and advocate for enabling civic space in Ethiopia. Its advocacy efforts are guided by the principle of ‘evidence-based advocacy’ through which the consortium and its members engage in evidence generation through research and monitoring to support their advocacy.
Over the past six years, CEHRO has implemented more than ten programmes and 60 projects and partnered with more than 35 partners. CEHRO’s flagship programmes include broadening civic space through evidence-based advocacy, promoting the rights of internally displaced persons (IDPs) to participate in political processes, including elections, advancing responsible business operations in alignment with the UN Guiding Principles on Business and Human Rights, monitoring the implementation of Universal Periodic Review (UPR) recommendations given to the Government of Ethiopia and submission of parallel reports, and monitoring the national dialogue process and transitional justice initiatives in Ethiopia. CEHRO championed adopting a comprehensive transitional justice policy in Ethiopia and is currently championing the adoption of the National Action Plan (NAP) on business and human rights in Ethiopia and legal frameworks to protect and promote the rights of IDPs in Ethiopia.
CEHRO engages with several local, national, regional and international stakeholders. Its partner engagement strategy is anchored on the ‘constructive engagement’ principle. CEHRO is a member of AU ECOSOCC, a voting member of CIVICUS, observer at the African Commission on Human and People’s Rights (ACHPR), chairperson for the Ethiopian Civil Societies Forum (ECSF), executive team member of the Ethiopian Civil Society Organisations Council (ECSOC), predecessor co-chair of the EHRC-CSOs platform, founding member of Salama Hub Programme in East Africa, and vice-chairperson of the E-HORN. CEHRO is willing to collaborate with more national, regional and international partners to advance human rights protection, democratic value consolidation and peace-building initiatives.
# East African Centre for Human Rights Trust (EACHRights) (Kenya)
EACHRights recognises that all human rights are indivisible, interdependent and interrelated, and that each right is equally important. It seeks to promote, protect and enhance human rights generally but with special emphasis on promoting and realising economic and social rights, human dignity and equitable development. Founded in 2010, it envisions a society that respects and upholds human rights and dignity.
The primary target beneficiaries of EACHRights’ work include vulnerable and marginalised persons and groups in East Africa and beyond, including but not limited to children, women and girls, youth and persons with disabilities.
EACHRights’ main programmes focus on education justice, health justice, environmental and climate justice, economic justice, and business and human rights. It constantly explores the intersectionality of these programme areas, including how they affect the realisation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). EACHRights espouses evidence-based advocacy and has elected to use the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) as its primary advocacy vehicle at the sub-national, national, regional and international levels.
EACHRights has observer status with the African Committee on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and coordinates the Kenya Stakeholders Coalition on the Universal Periodic Review (UPR Kenya).
# Eritrean Movement for Democracy and Human Rights (EMDHR) (Eritrea / South Africa)
“Africa Human Rights Day brings an international emphasis on human rights in Africa and strengthens the work done by HRDs and CSOs. The strengthening of HRDs gives hope for positive change in Africa, and the day recognises these milestones and challenges.” Helen Kidan, Chair, EMDHR
EMDHR was founded in 2003 by Eritreans in South Africa in response to the absence of civil and democratic rights of citizens and the lack of rule of law in Eritrea. It was registered in 2004 as a non-profit organisation in South Africa. EMDHR’s mission is to defend and promote the value of human rights and the rule of law, as well as advance democratic change to build a society in which its citizens can exercise their human rights. It works to advance a democratic dispensation through non-violent means.
EMDHR achieves its mission through advocacy, lobbying, campaigns, and partnerships with other organisations. It mobilises Eritreans to take ownership and agency in effecting change to ensure that all Eritreans can live in peace and dignity and have their human rights upheld.
EMDHR’s activities include documenting, reporting on and monitoring the human rights situation in Eritrea. It conducts workshops to build the capacity of Eritrean human rights defenders and has assisted Eritrean refugees in South Africa, Ethiopia, Sudan and Libya. It also partners with international human rights organisations to ensure that Eritrean CSOs and activists receive training on various human rights instruments and mechanisms.
EMDHR produced a policy brief in 2023 titled “Harnessing Independent Civil Society Organisations as Critical Partners in Fostering Socio-Economic Development in Eritrea.” It is the first to focus on how Eritrean CSOs and the Eritrean Government can move forward for the benefit of the people and the country. EMHDR hopes this policy brief will form the basis for opening the civil society space in Eritrea, which remains closed.
# Foundation for Human Rights Initiative (FHRI) (Uganda)
“As we commemorate Africa Human Rights Day, it is critical to reflect on the challenges that still inhibit the promotion and protection of human rights in Africa, including various ongoing regional and internal conflicts, the prevalence of poverty, ignorance and diseases and the predominance of political and social disharmony. Now, more ever than before, the rights discourse has come under intense scrutiny as states are more inclined to subject them to trade-offs in the name of state stability, social cohesion and structural reform. As spaces for debate and dissent continue to shrink, the search for alternative voices from groups such as FHRI has never been stronger.” Dr Livingstone Sewanyana, Executive Director, FHRI
FHRI promotes respect and observance of human rights practices and civic values and enhances best practices through training, education, research, advocacy, ICTs and strategic partnerships in Uganda.
Founded in 1991, FHRI’s objectives include promoting citizen awareness of basic human rights and duties guaranteed in the Ugandan Constitution and international human rights instruments; undertaking research, monitoring and documentation of best human rights practices; promoting citizen’s participation in governance, respect for the rule of law, democracy and civic values; advocating for best practices in the administration of justice in the Great Lakes region; building the civic competence of democratic structures for good governance; promoting access to justice through public interest litigation and provision of legal aid service delivery; promoting solidarity and partnerships among human rights organisations, duty bearers and rights holders at a national, regional and international level; maintaining a modern resource centre as a communication and information centre; and building a strong and sustainable human rights organisation.
In line with its organisational objectives, FHRI adopted a ninth five-year strategic plan (2022-2026) titled “Building Back Better: Realising Human Rights in the Post-COVID-19 Era in Uganda.” This plan is informed by Uganda’s persistent human rights, constitutionalism and democracy deficits.
FHRI’s strategic priorities are designed around five inter-linked campaigns, namely the My Rights, My Power Campaign, which seeks to build the capacity of citizens to proactively defend their rights and demand accountability from the state through rights knowledge; the Reducing Pre-trial Detention Campaign, which aims to reduce pre-trial detention in Uganda and promote alternatives to imprisonment through human rights monitoring and documentation, and legislative advocacy for legal, policy and practice reforms; the Rights and Rule of Law Campaign, which aims at strengthening the capacity and independence of the judiciary to reach just decisions; the Campaign for the Abolition of the Death Penalty in Uganda, which works towards the progressive abolition of capital punishment; and the Access to Justice campaign, which seeks to improve access to justice for vulnerable persons in Uganda.
Over the years, FHRI has made significant strides in executing justice in a timely manner. Through its Legal Aid Unit, FHRI has provided free holistic legal services to victims of human rights abuse, assisting over 100 000 individuals. Notably, FHRI has successfully obtained compensation for indigent workers, single mothers and orphans, demonstrating the tangible impact of its work.
FHRI’s impact extends beyond Uganda through its strategic partnerships with several regional and international organisations. As an active member of six networks and coalitions, including the East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Network (EAHRDP), Legal Aid Services Providers Network (LASPNET), Coalition Against Torture (CAT), the NGO Coalition for an Effective African Court on Human and People’s Rights (CEAC), World Coalition Against the Death Penalty (WCADP) and the Civic Education Network for Eastern and Southern Africa (CENESA), FHRI is part of a larger global human rights community, working together to promote and protect human rights.
# Great Lakes Initiative for Human Rights and Development (GLIHD) (Rwanda)
“Africa Human Rights Day helps raise awareness about the importance of human rights, particularly in addressing ongoing challenges such as discrimination, inequality, and violations of civil, political, economic and social rights. It serves as a moment for African states, civil society and human rights defenders to reflect on the state of human rights in their respective countries. The day fosters discussions on current human rights issues, enforcement of the African Charter and how to strengthen human rights mechanisms in Africa. It also promotes solidarity among African nations in the fight against human rights abuses and promotes the values of democracy, the rule of law and human dignity. It strengthens unity among countries to collectively address human rights challenges such as conflict, poverty and authoritarianism. By commemorating this day, Africa continues to commit itself to the ideals of human rights, emphasising the need for constant vigilance and action to ensure these rights are upheld across the continent.” Tom Mulisa, Executive Director
GLIHD is a human rights-based and public interest organisation duly registered and operating in Rwanda since 2011. Its mission is to contribute to the respect, promotion, and fulfilment of individuals’ and groups’ rights through human rights monitoring and advocacy of both national and international human rights normative frameworks in Rwanda and the Great Lakes region.
GLIHD’s core programmes include participatory governance and human rights, strategic litigation, sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR), environmental justice, and research and advocacy. It acts as the voice of vulnerable population groups, focusing on women, children, youth and adolescents, persons with disabilities, and historically marginalised people (HMPs).
Since 2015, GLIHD has achieved significant milestones by litigating various public interest cases before the Supreme Court and the High Court of Rwanda. Through such cases, GLIHD has successfully challenged the unconstitutionality of laws and policies. It has litigated SRHR cases challenging the application of Article 14 of the Maputo Protocol in the national legal system, and challenged the GBV law and the right to safe and legal abortion under the Rwandan law.
GLIHD enjoys observer status with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights. To this end, GLIHD has developed and submitted shadow reports under article 62 of the Charter, including a report on the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the Maputo Protocol on Women’s Rights in Africa. Similarly, GLIHD has developed and submitted shadow reports under the UN human rights system, including the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW), Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC), International Covenant on Economic, Social and Cultural Rights (ICESCR), Convention on Migrant Workers (CMW) and ILO Conventions.
# Human Rights Advancement, Development, and Advocacy Centre (HURIDAC) (Nigeria)
HURIDAC is committed to promoting human rights, democratic governance, the rule of law and environmental protection. Founded in 2014, it aims to establish societies where justice, freedom and equality are upheld, and all individuals enjoy their fundamental rights. Through strategic advocacy, education and partnerships, HURIDAC engages communities and policy-makers to build a just, equitable society across West Africa.
HURIDAC’s primary focus areas include democratic governance and elections – it strengthens democratic governance by advocating for transparent electoral processes, educating voters and engaging the youth to promote active citizenship, accountability and inclusive participation, fostering robust democratic institutions; the rule of law and access to justice – through advocacy and legal assistance, HURIDAC addresses rights violations, supports policy reforms and ensures equitable access to justice, promoting accountability and trust in governance; and climate change and environmental protection – recognising the link between human rights and environmental justice, HURIDAC focuses on raising awareness about climate change and advocating for sustainable practices. It collaborates with local communities to promote ecological protection, address environmental challenges and develop climate resilience.
HURIDAC builds the capacity and knowledge of civil society, government institutions, oversight bodies and other agencies and communities on human rights, development, democracy and conflict prevention. It is recognised for its efforts in promoting democratic values, legal accountability and environmental protection, and it has contributed to policy changes that support democratic elections, more robust legal frameworks and environmental protection.
HURIDAC operates in Nigeria, Sierra Leone and The Gambia, and it collaborates with local, regional and international stakeholders to expand its reach and impact.
# Human Rights Institute of South Africa (HURISA) (South Africa)
of Women. It advocates for using African human rights mechanisms to develop soft laws by adopting resolutions, guidelines, appeals and shadow reports.
HURISA also advocates for increased protection of women, human rights defenders and migrants, and campaigns against discrimination based on sexual orientation and gender identity. It collaborates with other stakeholders to effect state accountability through drafting monitoring, evaluation and alert frameworks for urgent response to human rights violations. It empowers regional NGOs with capacity-building programmes and supports civil society activists, WHRDs and HRDs to use African human rights mechanisms to change the human rights situation on the ground. It has assisted over 20 NGOs in the SADC region obtaining observer status with ACHPR.
HURISA cooperates with ACHPR Special Mandate Holders and Country Rapporteurs responsible for South Africa, Mozambique, Angola, Eswatini and Cameroon and is an ACHPR Support Group Member on Freedom of Association and Assembly in Africa. It contributed to crafting freedom of association and assembly in Africa with a special focus on the SADC region and participated in developing a report on the situation of Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) in Africa, promoting the implementation of the Protocol on the Rights of Women in Africa (Maputo Protocol).
HURISA also engages with UN human rights treaty bodies. It coordinates women’s advocacy focus groups that compile CSO shadow reports on the Convention on the Elimination of all Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW) and advocates at the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) to increase gender equality. HURISA leads CSO participation in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process, ensuring South Africa’s human rights record is thoroughly reviewed.
# Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa (IHRDA) (The Gambia)
significantly to the strengthening of the African human rights system. This is achieved through the secondment of staff to various human rights institutions, enhancing their technical competence. The beneficiaries of its services include African Union human rights bodies, and state and non-state actors across Africa, including lawyers and human rights defenders, judicial officials, journalists, parliamentarians, states’ counsels, law enforcement and national security officials, and national and regional human rights institutions.IHRDA has a track record of obtaining groundbreaking decisions before all the main African human rights mechanisms, including the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights (AfCHPR), the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC) and the ECOWAS Court. These include the first case in which ACHPR established the human rights responsibility of a non-state actor and awarded victims and survivors landmark compensation worth approximately US$3.5 million (Kilwa massacre case); the first case in which the African Court made a pronouncement on the enforcement of the Maputo Protocol (Mali Family Code case); the first case decided by ACERWC on its merits (Kenya Nubian children case); and the landmark ECOWAS Court judgment against Sierra Leone on the policy to ban pregnant girls from attending school.IHRDA partners with local NGOs in the countries where it works and has observer status with the ACHPR.
# Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) (Kenya)
approximately 9700 participants to reflect, brainstorm, learn and strategise on critical human rights, democracy and justice issues. KHRC secured the safety, freedom and justice for over 170 activists or persons threatened, wrongfully incarcerated or harmed by States. Such work included defending workers’ rights, LGBTI rights, land rights, corporate accountability, statelessness, and transitional justice. KHRC has also contributed to drafting and proposing amendments and advocated for (re)formulating over 20 laws, policies and institutional arrangements at county and national levels. This includes advocacy work towards protecting constitutional commissions, police reforms, judicial independence, and reform of electoral bodies.
KHRC works on three action areas, namely transformative justice, to foster peoples’ ability to participate in the civil and political life of the society and state without discrimination or repression; social and economic justice, to contribute to the political push for the realisation of economic and social rights as entrenched in the Constitution of Kenya 2010 and other relevant instruments; and institutional excellence, to enable KHRC to deliver on its mandate effectively.
KHRC partners with Human Rights Networks (HURINETs) and other grassroots community organisations in Kenya, including the Police Reform Working Group, CRECO, and EACSOF. Internationally, it is a member of the International Network of Civil Liberties Organisations (INCLO), the International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and ESCR-Net.
# Lawyers for Human Rights (LHR) (South Africa)
treatment in South African prisons. Through its Environmental Rights Programme, LHR has also pioneered work in climate justice, advocating for legal frameworks that promote sustainability and protect vulnerable communities from environmental degradation.LHR has played a crucial role in shaping South Africa’s human rights landscape, particularly in refugee protection, documentation rights and penal reform. Its significant achievements include landmark court victories, such as securing legal recognition for gender equality in customary law, protecting the rights of refugees through strategic litigation, and advancing reforms in penal law. LHR’s work in climate justice has set the foundation for legal frameworks that address environmental inequality and promote sustainable development.LHR’s geographical focus includes major cities such as Johannesburg, Pretoria and Durban, with a mobile clinic operating in Musina that serves communities in remote areas. It has built strong partnerships with both local and international organisations and is a member of several African and international human rights coalitions, advocating for systemic change. These include the Consortium for Refugees and Migrants South Africa (CoRMSA), Gender Diversity Coalition, Kopanang Africa Against Xenophobia, Southern Africa Nationality Network (SANN), International Detention Coalition, International Federation for Human Rights (FIDH) and the International Lawyers Assisting Workers Network.
Legal and Human Rights Centre (LHRC) (Tanzania)
“Africa Human Rights Day is a vital moment for reflection on the progress and challenges in human rights across the continent. It underscores the importance of collective efforts to ensure that human dignity and freedom are protected for all Africans.” Dr Anna Henga, Executive Director, LHRC
LHRC aims to empower Tanzanians and promote human rights and good governance. Founded in 1995, it envisions a just and equitable society, focusing on protecting marginalised groups, including women, children, youth and persons with disabilities.
LHRC’s programmes and activities include legal aid – providing free legal aid services through legal aid clinics and a network of paralegals across Tanzania; mass education – using media, including radio, television and social platforms, to raise awareness about human rights; research and publications – publishing annual human rights reports since 2002 which monitor and analyse the state of human rights across Tanzania; human rights and business – advocating for corporate responsibility in adhering to human rights principles, particularly concerning environmental justice and community rights; advocacy – engaging with the law-making process, offering analysis of parliamentary bills and advocating for reforms that protect human rights; and strategic cases – handling high-impact legal cases to push for changes in human rights policies, including the ongoing campaign to abolish the death penalty.
LHRC plays a pivotal role in preparing shadow reports for international human rights bodies and engages with mechanisms like the African Peer Review Mechanism (APRM, the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights and the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC).
It is also a key roleplayer in the Universal Periodic Review (UPR) process and collaborates extensively with other civil society organisations and international bodies to advance human rights.
# Malawi Human Rights Resource Centre (MHRRC) (Malawi)
information on the state of human rights in Malawi; and improved resource mobilisation – resource mobilisation has always been treated as central and overarching as it is critical to implementing its strategic plan and mission.
MHRRC’s activities and services include project grants management, study tours, training and counselling in human rights and gender, research, documentation services and advocacy.
MHRRC is a member of the Human Rights Consultative Committee, Men to Men Regional Initiative, MenEngage Alliance, Gender Based Violence Prevention Network, NGO Gender Coordination Network, SADC Gender Protocol Alliance, African Women’s Development and Communications Network (FEMNET), African Women Leaders Network (ALWN), Feminist Macroeconomics Alliance – Malawi and the Coalition for the Prevention of Unsafe Abortion (COPUA).
MHRRC was a founding member of the African Judicial Network (AJN), a grouping of more than 20 countries in Anglophone and Francophone Africa. It was also the national coordinator of the regional CIVICUS Civil Society Index Network. This innovative action-research project assesses the state of civil society in countries to create a knowledge base and impetus for civil society strengthening initiatives.
# Matabeleland Institute for Human Rights (MIHR) (Zimbabwe)
social movement of African civil society organisations that are non-violently campaigning for just development-induced displacements in Africa.
MIHR is a member of the Africa Water Justice Network (AWJN), the End Water Poverty (EWP) Campaign, Sanitation and Water for All, the Water Integrity Network, the ICCA Consortium and the Advisory Council of Initiatives for Sanitation Workers.
# Network Movement for Democracy and Human Rights (NMDHR) (Sierra Leone)
women and girls, children and youth, marginalised and vulnerable communities, and victims of human rights violations.
Some of NMHDR’s recent achievements include training 8 000 election observers to ensure a more transparent and credible electoral process in Sierra Leone, strengthening the capacity of 600 religious and traditional leaders to prevent violence against women in the Kailahun, Pujehun and Koinadugu districts and 12 communities in Freetown, partnering with Action Plus to promote ethical campaigning and tolerance awareness among all registered political parties, advocating key legislative reforms, including lobbying for the Gender Equality and Women’s Empowerment (GEWE) Act and resolving 91 gender-based violence (GBV) cases, enhancing community legal empowerment by training paralegals to provide legal aid, mediation and dispute resolution services, and strengthening child protection efforts, including successfully repatriating seven victims of trafficking from Senegal to Sierra Leone.
NMDHR partners with key African and international organisations such as the West African Civil Society Institute (WACSI), Justice Grassroots Network (JGN), Peace Direct, Alliance for Peacebuilding and the World Bank Civil Society Policy Forum.2
Africa Human Rights Day is an opportunity for NMDHR to collaborate with key stakeholders, including other human rights organisations, government institutions and international partners. This unified approach enhances efforts to address human rights challenges in Sierra Leone, reinforcing the collective commitment to uphold dignity, justice, and equality for all.
# Network of African National Human Rights Institutions (NANHRI) (Kenya)
Some recent notable outcomes include the adoption of the “Accra Declaration” during NANHRI’s 14th Biennial Conference in 2023. This declaration called for responsible business conduct across Africa and emphasised a human rights-based approach to business practices. It also contributed to the adoption of a resolution on a human rights-based approach to implementing the African Continental Free Trade Agreement (AfCFTA) and a Model Law on National Protection Systems of human rights defenders. Another key accomplishment was the launch of a report on ‘the right to social security in Africa’, focusing on vulnerable groups, presented at the African Commission’s 77th Ordinary Session in 2023.
NANHRI primarily serves NHRIs and key human rights stakeholders at the national, regional and international levels. Its geographical focus encompasses the entire African continent.
NANHRI is a member of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI) and collaborates with numerous African human rights mechanisms, including the African Union Commission, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child and the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights. These partnerships enable NANHRI to support the implementation of regional and international human rights commitments.
# Zimbabwe Human Rights NGO Forum (Zimbabwe)
National Transitional Justice Working Group and has well-established partnerships with strategic regional organisations such as Paradigm Initiative, Pan African Lawyers Union (PALU) and the Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network (SAHRDN).
The Forum, together with the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) and the National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO), serve as the convenors and coordinators of the CSOs’ UN Human Rights Council Universal Periodic Review (UPR) platform and the government-led UPR steering committee. The three organisations also sit in the National UPR Steering Committee, coordinated by the Ministry of Justice, Legal and Parliamentary Affairs and mandated to oversee the government’s implementation of human rights obligations. The Forum also has observer status at the African Commission.
# Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights (ZLHR) (Zimbabwe)
marginalised groups.
Since its inception, ZLHR has recorded milestones in challenging repressive legislation, such as the Public Order and Security Act. It has also secured landmark judgments that have set important legal precedents for human rights protection in Zimbabwe. It has represented tens of thousands of human rights defenders who have been targeted for doing their work. ZLHR has received wide recognition for its outstanding contributions to human rights and is a recipient of the US Freedom Defenders Award, John Humphrey Freedom Award, ABA International Rule of Law Award, Emilio Mignone Human Rights Award, Human Rights Tulip Award, and was bestowed with the honour of, “Human Rights Defender of 2023” by the National Association of Non-Governmental Organisations (NANGO).
ZLHR holds observer status with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, is a sustaining partner of the SADC Lawyers Association and has affiliate status with the International Commission of Jurists. ZLHR is also a member of the Southern African Human Rights Defenders Network.
# ZimRights (Zimbabwe)
ZimRights has made significant strides in promoting human rights and democracy in Zimbabwe by building a grassroots movement – mobilising its members has empowered citizens, instilling a strong sense of agency; promoting democratic engagement – active participation in elections ensures that marginalised voices are heard, fostering inclusivity; exercising institutional influence – it has been pivotal in establishing key human rights bodies such as the Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission; launching the People’s Human Rights Manifesto (PHRM) in 2023 which articulates what Zimbabweans expect from their leaders, centring human rights in electoral processes; and publishing the annual State of Peace Report which assesses peace in Zimbabwe and provides recommendations, emphasising grassroots insights for reconciliation.
ZimRights’ impact is further amplified through its collaborations with influential organisations. These include the International Federation of Human Rights (FIDH), a global network comprising 192 organisations advocating for human rights; the Southern Africa Human Rights Defenders Network, which engages in initiatives addressing civic space and political violence; and the Institute for Justice and Reconciliation (IJR), for developing a SADC transitional justice strategy.
ZimRights continues to be a critical force in advocating for human rights in Zimbabwe, empowering communities and promoting a culture of accountability and justice.