Human rights, the bedrock of Africa’s development and prosperity

29 January 2018

The President of Ghana, Nana Akufo-Addo launched the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights on the margins of the 30th African Union (AU) Summit in Addis Ababa.

In his speech, President Akufuo-Addo recalled that since its adoption on 10th December 1948, the Universal Declaration of Human Rights has been the basis of considerable advances in the universal protection of human rights on the continent.

"Having overcome several trials and tribulations, such as slavery, imperialism, colonialism, tyranny, and dictatorship, the African peoples continue to chalk significant successes in advancing the promotion and respect for human rights in their governance."

He insisted on the importance of ensuring that the fight for the protection and respect of human rights remains a constant one.

"We have an obligation to our past, our present and our future, to uphold the principles of democratic accountability, the rule of law, respect for human rights and individual liberties and freedoms, which must form the bedrock of our national, regional and continental development and prosperity."

The President invited dignitaries to sign on replica of the UDHR canvas to commemorate the 70th Anniversary. The launch was followed by a high level dialogue on the ratification of the Maputo Protocol in which the President as AU Leader on Gender and Development invited decision-makers from all sectors of life on the continent to support the Maputo Protocol and to become champions of women’s rights and agents of change.

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