During the recently concluded October 2024 NGO Forum, one of the key panels addressed the pressing issue of advancing the rights of communities discriminated against based on work and descent. This discussion brought together experts and activists who highlighted the systemic discrimination faced by millions across Africa.
Key Insights from Panelists
Commissioner Litha Musyimi-Ogana, Chairperson of the Working Group on Indigenous Populations/Communities and Minorities in Africa, African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights, reported that over 200 million individuals face discrimination linked to their work, descent, and tribal affiliations. She cited countries such as Gambia, Nigeria, and Senegal as examples where access to social justice and education is severely restricted, trapping these communities in cycles of poverty.
Queen Bisseng, a rights expert from the Global Forum of Communities Discriminated on Work and Descent (GFoD), emphasized that discrimination manifests through caste, origin, and class. She illustrated how these barriers prevent individuals from accessing education, justice, and basic human rights, ultimately denying them a dignified life. Bisseng highlighted that such discrimination is often rooted in birth status, affecting marriage rights and social participation.
Basiru Bah, Senior Legal Officer at the Gambian National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), shared findings from a study on caste discrimination within the Sarahulli tribes. He noted that certain community members are relegated to lower social statuses and are excluded from leadership roles. Bah pointed out significant gaps in legal protections against caste-based discrimination, despite constitutional recognition of customary laws.
Ephraim OGWU, a Nigerian activist from the OSU community, recounted historical practices where individuals labeled as Ossu were subjected to human sacrifice rituals. He described ongoing discrimination that restricts these individuals from marrying outside their caste and participating in elections or leadership positions. Despite legal frameworks intended to protect against such discrimination, enforcement remains lacking.
Halimatou Ceesay, an activist focused on gender equality in The Gambia, highlighted educational barriers faced by marginalized communities. She shared distressing accounts of children being denied access to schools due to discriminatory perceptions and physical violence against those attempting to build their own places of worship.
Ali Camara, an activist from Koina Village in Gambia, provided firsthand accounts of discrimination that led to violent confrontations between youth from different social strata. He emphasized the urgent need for justice as many perpetrators remain unpunished.
Bezahinibé Micheline SOMDA, a volunteer legal advisor with Lawyers Without Borders Canada, discussed the international legal framework addressing slavery issues in Mali. She called for improved documentation and data collection to better understand and address these injustices.
The panel concluded with a strong call to action for governments and organizations to adopt resolutions aimed at addressing discrimination based on work and descent. Participants emphasized the need for comprehensive measures to promote inclusivity and protect human rights for all individuals across Africa.
We encourage our social media followers and donors to engage with these critical issues as we work towards a more equitable future for marginalized communities throughout the continent. Your support can make a significant difference in advancing these vital causes.
