In a productive and insightful gathering, the annual Executive Committee and Governing Council Meeting for the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS) was held at the Bakadaji Hotel on September 7, 2024. The meeting, chaired by Mrs. Hannah Forster, ACDHRS Executive Director, marked a significant transition in leadership and set a positive tone for the Centre’s future endeavors.
On the following day on 8th September, 2024, members of the Governing Council and the staff of the Centre had a lunch meeting. The session commenced with opening remarks from the outgoing Chair, Hon. Andrew Chigovera. He reflected on the challenges faced during his tenure, expressing regret over unmet goals but also extending warm welcome and encouragement to the incoming Chair, Hon. Justice Solomy Bossa. Hon. Chigovera lauded Mrs. Forster’s dedication, likening her commitment to that of a nurturing caretaker.
In her address, the new Chair, Hon. Justice Solomy Bossa, acknowledged the efforts of her predecessors and expressed a hopeful outlook for overcoming current challenges. She emphasized her commitment to advancing the Centre’s mission and addressing pressing issues with renewed vigor.
Professor Mabassa Fall, another key figure in the meeting who is the new Vice Chair of the Governing Council, expressed gratitude for the professional team he will be working with and highlighted the Centre’s financial struggles. He commended the successful organization of events like the NGOs Forum, praised individual contributions, and shared personal reflections on his long-term collaboration with Mrs. Forster.
Mrs. Hannah Forster, in her remarks, acknowledged the dedicated selection of the team and the progress made in team building. She expressed optimism for continued development and progress in the coming year, thanking the outgoing Chair for his service.
Mr. Sadikh Niass, ACDHRS Adviser, also spoke, recognizing the dedication of the staff and praising their professionalism. He expressed confidence in the new leadership and extended his best wishes for the future.
The meeting concluded on a high note, with all attendees expressing their commitment to supporting the new leadership and furthering the Centre’s vital work in promoting democracy and human rights in Africa.
