Banjul, The Gambia – July 14, 2025 — The African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS), in partnership with the Open Society Foundation–Africa and Ford Foundation West Africa, will host a major training for West African civil society organizations (CSOs) from July 29 to 31, 2025, in Banjul. The event, themed “From Environmental Conservation to Climate Action: Empowering Civil Society Organizations in Africa for Sustainable Development and Human Rights Advancement,” aims to strengthen the role of CSOs in tackling the continent’s pressing environmental and climate challenges.
Africa continues to face severe threats from deforestation, pollution, biodiversity loss, and the impacts of climate change such as droughts and floods. The three-day training will equip 15 selected CSO representatives from across West Africa with knowledge and practical skills to engage with the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR) and other regional and international human rights mechanisms.
Participants will take part in lectures, interactive discussions, case studies, and group activities led by experts in environmental science, policy, and advocacy. The program will focus on the unique role of civil society in promoting democracy, upholding the rule of law, and advancing environmental justice.
The training will also foster dialogue and networking among CSOs, and aims to establish a dedicated cohort working with the ACHPR on environmental and climate issues.
The event will be evaluated through participant feedback and follow-up to ensure lasting impact. ACDHRS hope the initiative will empower CSOs to drive innovative solutions and collective action for a more sustainable and resilient Africa.
For more information, contact the African Centre for Democracy and Human Rights Studies (ACDHRS), Banjul, The Gambia.
Ellen Ann (Admin Officer) – csec@acdhrs.org / Pa Modou Cham (Comms/Info)- infocom@acdhrs.org or +220-3163509
Hannah Forster (Mrs.)
Executive Director
ACDHRS
