The two-day session, which kicked off today, brings together key stakeholders to discuss critical issues shaping Africa's governance and human rights landscape.

The session includes high-level presentations, strategic discussions, and planning sessions aimed at advancing democratic governance and promoting human rights across the continent. Ambassador Salah Hammad Head of the African Governance Architecture at the African Union (AU), provided insight into the importance of the meeting.

“This PRC subcommittee is composed of ambassadors accredited to AU. Its mandate is to promote good governance, democracy, the rule of law, and to safeguard human and people’s rights in Africa,” explained Hammad. He stressed that the PRC subcommittee works closely with other AU institutions to uphold these goals.

One of the key reasons for hosting the session in SA, he noted, is the country's strong support for the AU’s human rights agenda. “SA has been a steadfast supporter of the AU's human rights mission, and that’s why we are here in Midrand today," he added.

The meeting is expected to address several pressing issues, including reports of human rights violations in some member states, capacity building for AU organs responsible for human rights protection, and the reintegration of countries currently under sanctions due to unconstitutional government changes or coups.

The African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, based in Banjul, Gambia, will present its report to the subcommittee today. At the conclusion of this session, the PRC will compile its findings, which will be presented to the broader Permanent Representatives Committee and the Executive Council at the next AU Assembly in February 2025.

This meeting marks a significant step in the ongoing efforts to strengthen human rights and governance on the African continent.

--ChannelAfrica--