Dennis Lobuntu Ndlovu| Zim GBC News
The Zimbabwe Human Rights Commission (ZHRC) has urged citizens, governments, and institutions to uphold human rights values and confront historical injustices as the continent commemorates African Human Rights Day (AHRD).
The event was held at Bulawayo City Hall under the theme “Justice for Africans and People of African Descent Through Reparations.”
Speaking during the commemorations, ZHRC Commissioner Addelis Sibutha said the day serves as a reminder of Africa’s long struggle for dignity, justice, and equality.
“This day marks the coming into force of the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights in 1986 a landmark document that serves as Africa’s Bill of Rights.”
She explained that the Charter represents Africa’s collective commitment to human rights, noting that the continent’s liberation movements were deeply rooted in the desire for dignity, freedom, and respect for human life.
Sibutha highlighted that this year’s theme focusing on justice and reparations is both timely and significant.
“It compels us to confront the legacies of slavery, colonialism, apartheid, dispossession, and systemic discrimination that continue to shape inequalities in our societies,” She said.
“It is not enough to remember history; we must learn from it and act to build mechanisms of accountability, restitution, healing, and transformation.”
The Commissioner further underscored that Zimbabwe’s Constitution reflects the country’s dedication to upholding human rights.
“Our Constitution enshrines the principles of equality, justice, and respect for human dignity,” She said.
“These must not remain lofty ideals but become lived realities for every Zimbabwean.”
While acknowledging progress in advancing rights across the continent, he noted ongoing challenges such as poverty, corruption, and inequality.
“These issues continue to undermine the full realization of human rights for many Africans. They demand our collective effort and unwavering commitment,” she added.
She also praised the leadership of ZHRC Chairperson Hon. Fungayi Jessie Majome, who in May 2025 successfully moved a motion before the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) in Banjul, The Gambia. The motion called on African National Human Rights Institutions to work closely with the ACHPR and member states in celebrating African Human Rights Day.
“We must build on this foundation and ensure that next year’s commemorations are bigger and celebrated nationally,” she said.
she reminded attendees of the enduring message of the African Charter.
She said, “The enjoyment of rights and freedoms also implies the performance of duties on the part of everyone.”
“Let us all carry out our duties with the resolve to create a better future for generations to come,” she to applause from the audience.
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