ARUSHA, TANZANIA — The African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights has commenced its 82nd Ordinary Session in Arusha, Tanzania, as the continental judicial institution marks two decades since becoming operational. The session, which runs through September 25, brings together judges and other stakeholders to consider cases concerning human rights and justice across Africa. The court is expected to deliver a number of significant decisions during the session, with landmark rulings scheduled for September 24. The anniversary provides an opportunity for the institution to reflect on its contribution to strengthening human rights protection and accountability across the continent. Former Ghanaian President John Dramani Mahama, addressing the gathering, called on African governments to safeguard judicial independence and ensure that courts are able to perform their constitutional responsibilities without political interference. Mahama warned that democratic institutions cannot thrive where judicial independence is weakened, stressing that respect for human rights must remain central to democratic governance. The African Court was established as a continental mechanism for strengthening the protection of human and peoples’ rights and complements national and regional judicial systems. As proceedings continue in Arusha, attention will focus on the cases before the court and the implications of its forthcoming rulings for human rights protection across member states. The 20th anniversary is also expected to renew discussions around improving access to justice, strengthening compliance with court decisions and reinforcing the continent’s broader human rights architecture.
