Human Rights Reporters Ghana (NGO)

Category: News

  • Dr. Joseph Wemakor selected among new advocacy group to champion NPO bill

    Dr. Joseph Wemakor selected among new advocacy group to champion NPO bill

    Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), has been appointed as a member of a newly formed five-member Technical Advocacy Working Group dedicated to advancing the passage of Ghana’s Non-Profit Organization (NPO) draft Bill.

    His selection is part of a broader initiative announced during the Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Zonal Consultations at the GNAT Hall National Headquarters on February 27, 2025.

    This new advocacy group features a diverse mix of two men, two women, and a representative from the Persons Living with Disabilities (PLWDs) community.

    The group’s formation resulted from a transparent nomination and voting process that engaged over 500 representatives from various civil society organizations across the country.

     

    The members of the Technical Working Group include:

     

    – Isaac Boison, Coordinator of the Greater Accra Regional Youth Network (GARYN)

    – Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Founder and Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana

    – Hon. Afisa Otiko Djaba, Former Minister of Gender, Children and Social Protection

    – Priscilla AKofa Agbenu, from the Centre for Women in Development and Public Policy

    – Elvis Kosi Alipkui, representing Persons Living with Disabilities as a member of the Ghana Federation of Disability Organizations

    In his opening remarks at the consultations, Ibrahim-Tanko Amidu, Executive Director of STAR Ghana Foundation, highlighted the NPO Bill’s critical role in providing a conducive environment for non-profits to thrive, engage with communities, and significantly contribute to national development.

    “We must come together to advocate for this legislation and strengthen our collective voice,” he stated.

    The establishment of this advocacy group builds upon earlier consultations held in Kumasi on February 18 and Tamale on February 25, 2025, which facilitated dialogue among stakeholders and strategized for the NPO Bill.

    These gatherings attracted thousands of CSO representatives, who actively participated in discussions to craft a robust advocacy strategy.

    A key outcome of these consultations was the formation of an Advocacy Committee aimed at consolidating vital positions.

    This Committee will ensure that the NPO Bill not only regulates the operations of non-profits but also nurtures their growth and sustainability.

    The initiative is backed by STAR-Ghana Foundation, with funding from @WINGS and the EU through the Lift Up Philanthropy Fund, along with support from Comic Relief and FCDO through the Civil Society Strengthening Programme.

    Feruzah Salisu, Project Officer at STAR-Ghana Foundation, remarked that the formation of the Advocacy Committee represents a significant step toward mobilizing resources for the NPO Bill, which seeks to enhance the contributions of non-profit organizations to Ghana’s national development.

    These consultations have provided an essential platform for stakeholders to carefully consider the implications of the NPO Bill draft and strategize cooperative efforts to advocate for its passage in Parliament, positioning Dr. Wemakor and his colleagues at the forefront of this critical initiative.

  • Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor to highlight urgent human rights issue of child labour on Metro TV

    Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor to highlight urgent human rights issue of child labour on Metro TV

    Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, a prominent human rights advocate and journalist, is set to appear on Metro TV’s “Morning Rush” on February 6 at 6 AM.

    This episode promises to be crucial as Dr. Wemakor tackles the urgent topic of child and forced labour, an issue that affects millions of children around the world.

     

    Why This Discussion Matters

    In the episode, Dr. Wemakor will delve into the harsh realities faced by children who endure exploitation. His message is straightforward: “Child exploitation is not merely a local issue; it’s a worldwide crisis that requires our immediate intervention.”

    He aims to shed light on the factors perpetuating these violations and emphasizes the collective responsibility to combat them.

    As the Founder and Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), Dr. Wemakor has committed his career to advocating for human rights and empowering communities.

    HRRG plays a crucial role in uniting journalists, legal professionals, and activists to promote awareness of human rights issues consistent with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

     

    Accolades and Achievements

    Dr. Wemakor’s tireless efforts have not gone unnoticed. He has received numerous accolades, including the 5th UN Global Entreps Award and the Africa Peace Advocate Award 2023.

    These recognitions showcase his impact on the human rights landscape and underscore the importance of his message regarding the exploitation of children.

     

     Join the Movement

    Dr. Wemakor’s appearance on “Morning Rush” is a vital opportunity for viewers to engage in a significant conversation about child and forced labour. Here’s how you can get involved:

     

    – Watch the Show: Tune in to gain invaluable insights from Dr. Wemakor on this critical human rights issue.

    – Spread the Word: Share this announcement with your network to ensure more people are aware of the discussion.

    – Reflect and Advocate: Take time to consider the implications of child and forced labour in your own community and advocate for necessary changes.

    – Support HRRG: Follow Human Rights Reporters Ghana to learn more about their work and discover how you can contribute.

     

    Conclusion

    This upcoming episode of “Morning Rush” is more than just a show; it’s an opportunity to mobilize our collective efforts against child and forced labour. Join Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor as he shines a much-needed spotlight on this crucial issue, and let’s work together toward a future where every child can thrive free from exploitation.

     

  • Empowering Voices Against Child and Forced Labour: HRRG workshop in Asante Akyem Agogo enlightens journalists, activists

    Empowering Voices Against Child and Forced Labour: HRRG workshop in Asante Akyem Agogo enlightens journalists, activists

    Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), a vibrant media and human rights advocacy group, hosted a transformative one-day workshop in the Asante Akyem Agogo community in Ghana’s Western Region.

    The event aimed to empower journalists and activists in the critical fight against child and forced labour.

    Held at the elegant Masanita Royal Hotel on January 17, 2025, the workshop attracted over 30 dedicated participants, including journalists, human rights advocates, representatives from Civil Society Organizations (CSOs), and community leaders.

    Themed “Combating Child and Forced Labour through Video Verification Techniques,” the workshop focused on equipping attendees with essential skills to effectively utilize video technology in their advocacy efforts.

    Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, Executive Director of HRRG, opened the session with a compelling overview of the child labour crisis, highlighting its alarming prevalence and devastating impact on children, families, and society.

    He underscored the urgent need for collective action, sharing striking statistics and poignant real-life stories that illustrated the severity of the issue.

    “Innovative solutions are vital for addressing this pressing challenge,” he asserted.

    Executive Director Edem Damanka of the Edmark Rescue Foundation added even more depth to the conversation by stressing the value of community involvement. “We must empower our communities to recognize the signs of child labour and work together to create lasting change,” he stated. “Only through collective efforts can we protect our children and ensure a brighter future.”

    Kwame Darkwah Yiadom, an accomplished facilitator, led one of the workshop’s highlights. He introduced participants to advanced photo and video verification techniques, focusing on geo-mapping technology.

    Yiadom demonstrated how this innovative tool can authenticate videos, ensuring that reports of child and forced labour are credible and evidence-based.

    Participants learned to track the location, time, and context of recorded videos, significantly enhancing their advocacy and monitoring capabilities.

    The training fostered dynamic discussions, with participants exchanging diverse perspectives on effective strategies to combat child and forced labour in their communities.

    Many expressed their commitment to forming a collaborative network dedicated to eradicating child labour, creating a platform for resource sharing, strategies, and best practices.

    Feedback from attendees was overwhelmingly positive. Vincent, a reporter from Asempa Radio, praised the organizers for the insightful program and highlighted the need for regular training sessions to empower community members in identifying and reporting child labour cases.

    “If this could occur three or four times a year, it would be incredibly beneficial,” he remarked. Journalist Miss Adepa Yalley echoed this sentiment, stating, “This training has been extremely impactful, and I will implement everything I learned.

    The knowledge gained will significantly support our fight against child labour in our community.”

    The workshop underscored the importance of united efforts in tackling child and forced labour.

    HRRG’s innovative approach to integrating video verification techniques received widespread acclaim, showing promising potential to enhance the fight against these social injustices.

    Looking ahead, HRRG is committed to strengthening the newly formed network of stakeholders and supporting participants in implementing digital verification techniques in their respective regions.

    This initiative was made possible through generous funding from WITNESS, a global human rights organization dedicated to empowering individuals to leverage video and technology for the protection of human rights.

    This workshop marks a significant step in the ongoing battle against child and forced labour, emphasizing the power of community engagement and innovative strategies in creating lasting change.

     

  • Wemakor receives global honor for lifelong commitment to community development

    Wemakor receives global honor for lifelong commitment to community development

    Celebrated Ghanaian journalist and human rights activist, Joseph Kobla Wemakor, has been awarded the prestigious Global Doctoral Humanitarian and Ministerial Excellence Award 2024 by the Board of Regents of the International Kingdom University in Margate, Florida, USA.

    This recognition highlights his outstanding leadership and unwavering commitment to humanitarian service.

    In the award notification, the Selecting Committee expressed admiration for Wemakor’s lifelong dedication to community development, stating, “We consider it worthwhile to officially confer this honor upon you after a careful study and monitoring of your lifestyle and social work.”

    They commended his exemplary character and significant contributions to both his community and country, recognizing him as “a noble personality with integrity who deserves this great highest academic achievement.”

    Wemakor, the founder and Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), has made remarkable strides in media advocacy, uniting journalists, editors, lawyers, and human rights defenders to promote social justice.

    He is also a prominent advocate for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and serves as the Convener of the Ghana Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Platform on SDGs (Youth sub-platform).

    An honorary graduate of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) and a fellow of the Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa Financial Journalism Program, Wemakor’s impressive accolades include the 5th UN Global Entreps Awards, the Africa Peace Advocate Award in 2023, and recognition as a finalist for the 2023 African Human Rights Defenders Shield Award and the African Rising Activism Award 2020 (Movement of the Year Category).

    During the ceremony, Rev. Dr. Christian Heim, Chancellor of International Kingdom University, addressed the audience, stating, “It’s my privilege to stand before you today… to celebrate exceptional leaders and citizens who have made significant contributions to humanity.”

    He emphasized the importance of honoring living leaders, saying, “We believe in honoring the living rather than the deceased.” Rev. Dr. Heim expressed gratitude to those who made the event possible and appealed for support to establish a permanent campus for International Kingdom University in Ghana, highlighting, “We are investing in people that we have no clue until we train them that they might achieve great things.”

    He continued, “Your support will enable us to create a hub for academic excellence, innovation, and leadership development,” and encouraged contributions, reminding attendees, “You don’t sow good seed in bad ground. You sow good seed in good ground that produces a good harvest.”

    Dr. Francis Essel Okyeahene, Chairman of the Governance & Development Committee, also delivered an inspiring speech.

    He welcomed all attendees, remarking, “You are all welcome. My mission here is to welcome you.”

    He emphasized the significance of the Global Doctoral Humanitarian Excellence Award’s 24th edition and expressed pride in conferring honorary degrees on outstanding individuals who have demonstrated exceptional leadership, innovation, and compassion.

    Among those recognized alongside Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor were notable figures such as Ing. George Asiedu, Project Coordinator of the Greater Accra Metropolitan Area (GAMA) Sanitation and Water Project, Dela Gomado, Torgbui Ogidigah Prosper, Apostle Michael Akesseh, and many others, including Rt. Rev. Samuel Ashmond Mensah and Prophet Kingsford Aidoo Maxwell.

    Archbishop General Obenfo George Slezer Ofori-Atah also shared his thoughts during the ceremony, stating, “I want to talk a little on embodying leadership, inspiring transformation, and embodying excellence.”

    He highlighted the significance of the honorary doctorate, saying, “The honorary doctorate in executive leadership that you are about to receive is a testament to exceptional leadership and achievement.”

    He urged the honorees to recognize their power to shape cultures and transform lives, emphasizing, “Leadership is not just a title; it is a way of being.”

    Wemakor’s latest honor is a testament to his tireless efforts in journalism, humanitarian advocacy, and the promotion of human rights in Ghana and beyond.

    He believes his hard work, dedication, and contribution towards activism over decades have been rewarded.

    “This is a monumental achievement that has transformed my life. With deep honor and gratitude, I want to say a big thank you to the Board of Regents at the International Kingdom University, including its Selecting Committee, for this great honor.”

    Wemakor’s latest honor is a testament to his tireless efforts in journalism, humanitarian advocacy, and the promotion of human rights in Ghana and beyond.

    Reflecting on his recognition, he stated, “This is a monumental achievement that has transformed my life. With deep honor and gratitude, I want to say a big thank you to the Board of Regents at the International Kingdom University, including its Selecting Committee, for this great honor.”

    As Dr. Okyeahene concluded, “They will honor you before you die. You will be a brother of God before you die. Your children will be okay.”

    This powerful message resonated deeply with the audience, celebrating the impact of all honorees and reinforcing the importance of their work in contributing to a better society.

     

     

  • Dr. Joseph Wemakor to discuss leadership and humanitarian issues on Metro TV’s Morning Rush

    Dr. Joseph Wemakor to discuss leadership and humanitarian issues on Metro TV’s Morning Rush

    On Tuesday, November 19, 2024, from 5:30 AM to 7:30 AM, viewers are encouraged to tune in to Metro TV’s “Morning Rush” for an enlightening discussion featuring Dr. Joseph Kobla Wemakor, a distinguished journalist and human rights advocate.

    In this live interview, Dr. Wemakor will share insights about his recent accolade—the Global Doctoral Humanitarian and Ministerial Excellence Award 2024. This recognition highlights his commitment to acknowledging leaders and citizens who have positively impacted society in the 21st century.

    Dr. Wemakor’s contributions to leadership and humanitarian efforts have not gone unnoticed.

    He has been honored by the Board of Regents at the International Kingdom University in Florida, USA. The Selecting Committee commended his dedication, stating, “We consider it worthwhile to confer this honor upon you after a careful study of your lifestyle and social work.” They emphasized his exemplary character and significant influence on both his community and his country.

    As the founder and Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), Dr. Wemakor has played a crucial role in uniting journalists, editors, lawyers, and human rights advocates in the quest for social justice.

    His passion for the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is evident in his role as the Convener of the Ghana Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) Platform on SDGs (Youth sub-platform).

    Dr. Wemakor’s academic achievements include being an honorary graduate of the Ghana Institute of Journalism (GIJ) and a fellow of the Bloomberg Media Initiative Africa Financial Journalism Program.

    His accolades are numerous, including the 5th UN Global Entreps Awards and the Africa Peace Advocate Award in 2023.

    He was also recognized as a finalist for the 2023 African Human Rights Defenders Shield Award and the African Rising Activism Award 2020 in the Movement of the Year category.

    His upcoming appearance on “Morning Rush” promises to provide valuable insights into his unwavering commitment to journalism and humanitarian advocacy.

    Dr. Wemakor will emphasize the importance of celebrating individuals who strive to make a positive difference in society.

    Don’t miss this opportunity to gain inspiration from a true leader in the field!

  • Human Rights Reporters Ghana condemns unlawful arrests and detention of peaceful protesters by Ghana Police

    Human Rights Reporters Ghana condemns unlawful arrests and detention of peaceful protesters by Ghana Police

    The Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), a dynamic media advocacy and human rights non-governmental organization in his latest press statement vehemently condemns the unlawful actions of the Ghana Police Service in the arrest and detention of approximately 40 citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful protest.

    The incident occurred on Saturday, September 21, 2024, when demonstrators took to the streets to raise their voices against critical national issues, including state capture, rampant corruption, and the destructive effects of illegal small-scale mining (galamsey) on the country’s water bodies.

    Troublingly, in addition to targeting peaceful protesters, police officers arrested ordinary bystanders who were merely going about their daily activities.

    This indiscriminate action is a violation of their basic human rights.

    We are especially concerned about the Ghana Police Service’s habitual use of unlawful tactics and excessive force, particularly against young protestors.

    Such actions are not only unethical but also represent a clear violation of the fundamental human rights guaranteed by the 1992 Constitution of Ghana. Specifically, these actions breach Article 14, which protects the right to personal liberty, and Article 21, which ensures the right to freedom of assembly.

    By arresting individuals without just cause and employing aggressive tactics to suppress peaceful demonstrations, the police have undermined citizens’ rights to lawfully express their grievances and engage in peaceful assembly.

    These heavy-handed actions constitute a gross abuse of power and a disregard for the rule of law.

    Human Rights Reporters Ghana joins the chorus in demanding that the Ghana Police Service immediately end these illegal actions and uphold each and every citizen’s fundamental rights.

    We implore the appropriate authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation into this occurrence and to hold those accountable who committed these offenses.

    Law enforcement organizations must uphold the rights of the people they have sworn to defend.

    We also stand in solidarity with the affected individuals and urge all citizens to remain vigilant in defending their rights.

    We call on civil society, legal practitioners, and human rights advocates to unite in condemning these abuses and to demand accountability and justice.

     

    Read the full statement here:

  • Advancing inclusivity and diversity in Ghanaian universities: Key takeaways from recent CDD-Ghana workshop

    Advancing inclusivity and diversity in Ghanaian universities: Key takeaways from recent CDD-Ghana workshop

    Accra, Ghana, September 11, 2024—The Center for Democratic Development (CDD-Ghana) recently hosted a pivotal workshop aimed at addressing human rights, inclusivity, and diversity within university settings. Held at the Erata Hotel in Accra.

    The event brought together deans of students, counselors, and student leaders to engage in meaningful discussions surrounding these critical issues.

    Profound insights were shared during the opening presentation by Professor Audrey Gadzekpo, Board Chair of CDD-Ghana and Dean of the School of Information and Communications Studies at the University of Ghana.

    Her presentation, titled “Communicating on Diversity and Inclusion: Protecting Private and Confidential Data,” highlighted the pressing need to safeguard students’ privacy while fostering an environment conducive to inclusivity.

    Professor Gadzekpo pointed to alarming incidents of discrimination and violence experienced by students with disabilities and members of the LGBTQI community, underscoring the necessity for universities to broaden their definitions of inclusivity.

    “The university is a bit gun-shy right now about really expanding on how they define inclusivity and diversity. We must consider all forms of difference, including gender, social demographics, and sexual orientation,” she noted in a subsequent interview.

    To address these challenges, Professor Gadzekpo called for proactive initiatives, such as awareness campaigns that promote respect and tolerance on campuses. “Institutions must send strong signals about their dedication to inclusivity,” she stressed, advocating for comprehensive social issues management plans that enhance sensitivity to crises and communication in educational settings.

    Emerita Professor Takyiwaa Manuh, a Senior Fellow at CDD-Ghana, also contributed invaluable perspectives during her presentation on human rights and diversity in higher education. “The university is not a secondary school; it is a place for adults,” she emphasized, advocating for environments that encourage open dialogue and fearless self-expression.

    She highlighted the importance of educating students not only on their rights but also on the broader human rights context. Professor Manuh urged universities to implement human rights-compliant policies and support services that create a safe and inclusive atmosphere for all students. “Comprehensive policies that protect LGBTQ+ individuals from discrimination within educational institutions are essential for upholding their right to education,” she asserted.

    Further enriching the workshop, Professor Kwadwo Appiagyei-Atua from the University of Ghana School of Law and Director of the Africa Coalition for Academic Freedom addressed the vital role of academic freedom in promoting a diverse educational experience.

    “Academic freedom is not solely for faculty; it also encompasses students’ rights to engage in robust discussions and debates,” he stated, emphasizing that a secure environment for expression enhances learning and critical thinking.

    Dr. Michael Augustus Akagbor, a Senior Programs Officer at CDD-Ghana, remarked on the workshop’s timeliness, noting that many attendees, including deans of students, had not yet engaged with significant legislative changes affecting student rights.

    “It is concerning that many participants were unfamiliar with such a pivotal bill,” he commented, urging public officials to separate personal biases from their responsibilities, especially in sensitive contexts.

    The workshop fostered dynamic discussions that illuminated the divergent perspectives on LGBTQI rights and the experiences of sexual and gender minorities. While several participants passionately advocated for the recognition and protection of these rights, others expressed discomfort, revealing a notable divide on the topic of inclusivity in university settings.

    “It has worked out well for me, but we need to engage in more conversations to fully understand these issues,” one participant said, highlighting the need to recognize the LGBTQI community as a vital component of society.

    As the workshop concluded, Dr. Akagbor expressed optimism about the potential for increased dialogue and advocacy for inclusivity on campuses.

    He emphasized that fostering an empowering environment would allow students to feel safe reporting issues such as sexual harassment.

    The event ended with a collective call for sustained engagement among stakeholders, reinforcing the commitment to inclusivity and diversity, and ensuring that universities in Ghana evolve into safe and respectful spaces for all students.

     

  • Human Rights Reporter’s Joseph Wemakor to participate in plenary session at Civic Space Outlook documentary launch

    Human Rights Reporter’s Joseph Wemakor to participate in plenary session at Civic Space Outlook documentary launch

    Joseph Wemakor, Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), has been invited to speak at a plenary session during the upcoming launch of the Civic Space Outlook documentary.

    This important event will take place on August 29, 2024, from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.  at the Accra City Hotel.

    The launch will delve into the current state of civic engagement in Ghana, especially in the context of the upcoming elections. It aims to provide essential insights into the trends, drivers, and impacts that shape the civic landscape in the country.

    Wemakor, who also serves as the Convener of the Ghana Civil Society Organizations Platform on SDGs (Youth Sub-platform), will be joined by a distinguished panel of experts.

    Among them is Bertha Badu-Agyei, News Editor at the Ghana News Agency, who will discuss the media’s crucial role in promoting transparency and encouraging civic engagement during elections.

    Vera Addo, Programs Officer at CDD-Ghana, will present research findings that highlight the significance of informed citizen participation for a healthy democracy.

    Mercy Larbi, Deputy Commissioner at the Commission on Human Rights and Administrative Justice, will address pressing human rights issues and advocate for greater accountability in governance. Additionally, Kofi Yeboah, General Secretary of the Ghana Journalists Association, will outline the challenges journalists face in covering civic matters and emphasize the vital importance of press freedom.

    This event represents more than just a documentary launch; it serves as a vital platform for dialogue about civic space in Ghana. It aims to foster collaboration among stakeholders as they confront the significant challenges facing civic engagement and explore collective strategies to protect democracy.

    Highlighting the urgency of this conversation, Wemakor expressed his gratitude for the opportunity to participate, stating, “As the civic space in Ghana faces numerous challenges, it is essential for us to come together, share our experiences, and explore collective solutions to defend our rights.”

    His insights, informed by years of activism and civic engagement, will be invaluable as Ghana approaches this critical electoral period.

    The Civic Space Outlook launch promises to be a landmark event for all advocates of citizens’ rights and freedoms in Ghana. Organized by Spaces For Change (S4C), a dynamic non-profit organization focused on integrating human rights into social and economic governance, the event is supported by the Ford Foundation through the Civic Space Resource Hub.

    S4C aims to empower civic actors and enhance democratic participation through research, advocacy, youth engagement, and community action.

    As the event draws near, anticipation is building for what will undoubtedly be a powerful and necessary conversation about the future of civic rights and freedoms in Ghana.

    With a lineup of key figures participating, the discussions are set to spark critical conversations that will drive the discourse on protecting civic space forward.

     

     

  • Human Rights Reporters Ghana boss Joseph Wemakor advocates for civic freedoms at key regional conference in Uganda

    Human Rights Reporters Ghana boss Joseph Wemakor advocates for civic freedoms at key regional conference in Uganda

    Prominent Ghanaian journalist and human rights champion Joseph Kobla Wemakor made significant contributions at a crucial regional conference in Kampala, Uganda, held from August 5-6, 2024.

    The conference focused on navigating the delicate intersection between counter-terrorism strategies and the safeguarding of civic freedoms, highlighting the urgent need to protect human rights amid rising repression.

    As the Convener of the Ghana Civil Society Organizations Platform on Sustainable Development Goals (Youth Sub-platform) and the Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana, Wemakor is well known for his unwavering commitment to elevating underrepresented voices and confronting injustices across the African continent. His active role in this conference underscored his influence as a leading advocate for human rights and the promotion of democratic values during a time of increasing constraints.

    Organized by the Defenders Protection Initiative along with the Civic Advisory Hub, the conference was aptly titled “TOGETHER – Countering Financing of Terrorism While Safeguarding Civic Space.” It gathered various non-profit organizations and key decision-makers to develop strategies aimed at tackling the complexities of financial crimes while preserving civil liberties.

    Wemakor’s participation at the conference came on the heels of his impactful involvement in the Pan Africa Human Rights and Social Justice Conference held in Nairobi, Kenya, where he engaged in critical discussions following an invitation from Ben Saul, the UN Special Rapporteur on human rights in counter-terrorism.

    At the Kampala gathering, Wemakor delivered passionate remarks emphasizing the importance of ensuring that counter-terrorism policies do not encroach on civic freedoms. His message resonated with many attendees, as numerous African countries continue to struggle with laws that curtail civil society and freedom of expression under the guise of national security.

    Highlighting the importance of solidarity among non-profit entities, Wemakor stressed the need for resilience-building against emerging threats to civic spaces.

    He appealed for a governance approach that prioritizes human rights while adequately addressing security challenges.

    As the discussions progressed in Kampala, participants expressed hope that the perspectives shared by prominent figures like Wemakor would translate into effective strategies to address the ongoing challenges faced by civil society across Africa.

    His involvement not only deepened the dialogue but also inspired hope among those committed to advancing human rights and democratic principles throughout the continent.

     

    Source:Joshua Elikplim Adjei

  • Acclaimed Ghanaian activist Joseph Wemakor secures exclusive invite to Pan Africa Human Rights Conference in Nairobi

    Acclaimed Ghanaian activist Joseph Wemakor secures exclusive invite to Pan Africa Human Rights Conference in Nairobi

    Joseph Kobla Wemakor, the visionary Founder and Executive Director of Human Rights Reporters Ghana (HRRG), has been extended a special invitation to the upcoming Pan Africa Human Rights and Social Justice Conference in Nairobi, Kenya.

    This exclusive invitation comes directly from Ben Saul, the UN Special Rapporteur on the promotion and protection of human rights while countering terrorism.

    The conference, scheduled for June 8 and 9, 2024, at the prestigious Argyle Grand Hotel, aims to delve into the critical topic of developing a human rights-focused approach to combating terrorism in Africa.

    Bringing together a diverse range of stakeholders, including African civil society organizations, governmental bodies, and regional institutions such as the United Nations, the event seeks to facilitate collaboration and cooperation to address these pressing issues.

    The outcomes of this conference are poised to significantly influence the upcoming report to the General Assembly in October 2024 by the Special Rapporteur.

    This report will shed light on the crucial roles of regional and sub-regional entities in the fight against terrorism while ensuring the protection of human rights principles.

    In a recent interview, Wemakor shared his excitement at the unique opportunity to engage with leading human rights advocates, experts, and policymakers in shaping discussions on safeguarding human rights in the context of anti-terrorism strategies across the African continent.

    Renowned for his advocacy work in Ghana, Joseph Wemakor is also a valued member of the G16 Regional Security Advocacy Group (G16RSAC), dedicated to strengthening security processes in the West African sub-region through various initiatives.

    Moreover, the conference presents an ideal platform for the G16RSAC members to engage with the UN Special Rapporteur’s office on human rights protection in counter-terrorism efforts specific to Africa.

    This interaction will provide valuable insights into the region’s unique challenges, root causes, and the efforts undertaken by African states to address terrorism while upholding human rights.

    During the conference, G16 members will have the opportunity to propose sustainable solutions in line with global human rights standards in the battle against terrorism in Africa.

    In addition, they will strategize on the next steps for regional action, explore approaches, identify key stakeholders, and establish strategies for further engagement within the region.