Gambia, August 28, 2024 — The African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) opened its highly anticipated training session today, bringing together civil society organizations (CSOs) from across West Africa. The event, led by ACDHRS Executive Director Madam Hannah Forster, aims to address pressing issues of climate change and its impact on human rights in the region.
Madam Forster welcomed participants from 11 West African nations, emphasizing the critical role of climate change in shaping the continent’s future. “Climate change profoundly affects our resources and the lives of millions,” she said. Forster expressed gratitude to everyone involved in organizing the training, highlighting the collaborative effort needed to tackle such an urgent issue.
Dr. Nana K.A. Busia, Assistant Professor and Research Fellow at the University of London, shared his evolving perspective on climate change. Initially skeptical, Dr. Busia acknowledged the devastating effects of environmental degradation on development. He encouraged participants to engage with non-state actors to address climate issues effectively and urged ACDHRS to continue integrating human rights into their training.
Edmund Foley, Executive Director of the Legal Aid Commission, stressed the importance of preparing for the future, noting that by 2050, Africa will see a dramatic increase in its child population. Foley highlighted the need for proactive measures to address climate challenges now and in the future.
Peter Gomez from the African Centre for Human Rights and Democracy Studies (ACHRDS) introduced the training’s objectives, which focus on empowering CSOs to drive climate action and human rights advancement. The three-day event aims to enhance participants’ skills in environmental advocacy and build networks for collective action.
Mr. Mbassa Fall of ACHRDS emphasized the urgency of addressing climate change and protecting biodiversity. He called for concrete proposals to combat the deterioration of the biosphere, stressing that climate change exacerbates poverty and other crises.
Pedro Rosa Co, Senior Legal Officer from the African Commission who speaks on behalf of Mrs Abiola Idowu-Ogo, Executive Secretary at ACHPR highlighted the state’s responsibility to protect human rights and praised the ACDHRS for organizing such a crucial forum.
The opening session concluded with participants introducing themselves and sharing their expectations for the forum. The day’s sessions included an overview of international human rights law by Dr. Busia, providing participants with a foundational understanding of the subject and its relevance to environmental issues.
As the training progresses, participants are expected to gain valuable insights and strategies to address climate change challenges and advocate for human rights in their respective countries.
