The Institute for Human Rights and Development in Africa (IHRDA) participated in the 28th Ordinary Session of the CSO Forum held in Maseru, Lesotho, from 13–16 April 2026.

On 16 April 2026, IHRDA, together with Human Rights Watch (HRW) and partners, convened a panel discussion on: Protecting Children from Toxic Mining Environments: Spotlight on Kabwe, Zambia

Children in Kabwe, Zambia are growing up in one of the most lead-contaminated environments in the world. This is not a problem of the past — it is a crisis unfolding right now.

Held ahead of the 47th Ordinary Session of the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child (ACERWC), the discussion highlighted the devastating impact of toxic mining environments on children’s health, development, and future.

The conversation came at a critical moment, as IHRDA and affected families filed a case before the ACERWC seeking accountability and urgent protection for children harmed by lead poisoning in Kabwe.

Read the Press Release

Across Africa, toxic exposure linked to mining continues to endanger children and communities — from Kabwe to communities in Ghana, Togo, and beyond.

Joint Statement