President John Dramani Mahama has officially opened the 2026 Judicial Year of the African Court on Human and Peoples’ Rights in Arusha, calling for stronger institutions and renewed commitment to justice across the continent.
The ceremony, held at the seat of the Court in Tanzania, drew leading jurists, government officials, members of the diplomatic corps and representatives of regional bodies.
The gathering marked the formal start of the Court’s new legal calendar and served as a platform to reflect on Africa’s progress and challenges in promoting human rights.
In his address, President Mahama stressed the need to strengthen continental institutions and protect judicial independence. He said justice must not only be done, but must be seen to be done, without fear or favour. According to him, safeguarding the dignity and rights of every African is central to the continent’s development and stability.
He urged African states to deepen cooperation and fully support the Court’s mandate, noting that strong legal systems are essential to maintaining accountability and public trust. The President described the Court as a vital pillar in Africa’s democratic architecture, one that offers hope and redress to citizens whose rights have been violated.
The opening of the Judicial Year signals what leaders described as a renewed resolve among African countries to uphold the rule of law and advance a shared vision of justice and human rights.
As proceedings begin for the year ahead, expectations remain high that the Court will continue to shape the continent’s legal landscape and reinforce confidence in its commitment to fairness and equality.
