From 7–8 July 2026, we collaborated with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad of The Gambia, to conduct a two-day capacity-building workshop on the African human rights system targeting young Gambian diplomats. 

The workshop, which was officially opened by the Minister of Foreign Affairs, International Cooperation and Gambians Abroad, brought together diplomats from the Ministry involved in multilateral affairs, treaty reporting, and international cooperation, reaffirming a shared commitment to strengthening The Gambia’s engagement with regional and international human rights mechanisms.

“Empowering diplomats and public institutions with knowledge of the African human rights system is essential for strengthening accountability, improving compliance with regional and international obligations, and advancing the protection and promotion of human rights across Africa, for diplomats are central to the very existence and functionality of the system.” — Dr. Musa Kika, Executive Director, IHRDA

Throughout the workshop, participants deepened their understanding of the African and ECOWAS human rights systems, including The Gambia’s treaty obligations and reporting responsibilities. The sessions also strengthened participants’ practical skills in treaty body reporting, periodic review processes, and engagement with regional human rights and supervisory mechanisms in areas such as enforcement of decisions, budgeting and State Party oversight. In addition, the training promoted stronger coordination between the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and relevant national institutions to enhance policy coherence and support the effective implementation of decisions issued by human rights bodies.

The workshop forms part of IHRDA’s ongoing capacity-building initiatives aimed at raising awareness of the African human rights system and strengthening the knowledge and skills of key stakeholders.