By Nelson Manneh
The African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) has launched a training program in Banjul to empower religious and traditional leaders from across Africa with tools to strengthen democracy, human rights, and the rule of law in their communities.
The initiative aims to equip these influential figures with the knowledge to engage effectively with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and address challenges such as conflicts, military coups, sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), and other human rights violations. Participants will also develop actionable strategies to implement within their communities while building a network of leaders advocating for democratic governance and human rights across the continent.
ACDHRS, an independent pan-African NGO based in Banjul, The Gambia, was established in 1989 and operates to promote and protect human rights and democratic principles throughout Africa. Originally established by an Act of Parliament, the centre later became fully autonomous to strengthen its independence and regional outreach.
The training, themed “From Tradition to Transformation: Empowering Religious and Traditional Leaders in Africa for the Consolidation of Democracy, Rule of Law, and Human Rights,” underscores the critical role of community leaders in fostering dialogue, promoting understanding, and driving collective action to uphold human rights and democratic values.
Hon. Hamat N.K. Bah, Minister of Local Government, Land, and Religious Affairs, said the program represents a progressive step toward meaningful engagement with community leaders.
“This consultation will bring together religious and traditional leaders from across Africa for invaluable networking opportunities, while reinforcing the essential link between governance, tradition, and human rights,” Minister Bah said.
He added, “Religious and traditional leaders hold a unique position in society. They are custodians of values, voices of communities, and stewards of human rights. Their insights and influence are critical for fostering dialogue, understanding, and collective action to protect the rights and dignity of every individual.”
Dr. Nana Busia, lead facilitator of the training, emphasized the role of these leaders in shaping democratic values, promoting peace, and upholding the rule of law.
“Religious and traditional leaders have unparalleled influence within their communities in addressing conflicts, promoting human rights, and challenging harmful practices,” he said.
Dr. Busia highlighted ongoing challenges across the continent, including armed conflicts, military coups, SGBV, and other human rights violations. He noted that extremism, both traditional, driven by ethnic militias and ritual violence, and cultural, marked by gender-based violence and resistance to modern education, continues to undermine stability in countries such as Nigeria, Sudan, and Ethiopia.
Mr. Alhagie Cherno Momodou Jallow, Vice Chairperson of the Independent Electoral Commission (IEC), stressed the importance of training leaders to guide public opinion during elections.
“Elections in Africa often generate tension, but religious and traditional leaders can play a pivotal role in orienting the public. Training them on these issues will help shape informed and peaceful communities,” he said.
The ACDHRS training initiative represents a concerted effort to harness the influence of religious and traditional leaders, strengthening governance and human rights advocacy across Africa while addressing the continent’s most pressing democratic and social challenges.
