By Binta Jaiteh
High Court Judge, Aisatou Jalloh-Sie has emphasised that the Gambia is the center for the protection and promotion of human rights in Africa.
Justice Jalloh made this remark in a recent day-long seminar on the concluded study on Understanding the African Commission’s role in combating Transnational OrganisedCrimes (TOCs) in Africa under a project, Enhancing Africa’s Response to Transnational Organised Crime (ENACT) with the support of the European Union (EU).
The study highlighted the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights’ role in combating TOCs in Africa and how it handles TOCs within the African human rights system (AFHRS) using various internal mechanisms.
In her statement, Justice Aisatou Jalloh-Sie said the deliberations at the seminar will be of greatest significance, as it will specifically continue the critical task of forging a global alliance of policymakers and law enforcement agencies, which, though coordinated, would use international agreements bilateral or multilateral.
She stated that the Gambia is dedicated to hosting the seminar as the country is an entirely appropriate venue for such a seminar.
ENACT Regional Organized Crime Observatory Coordinator for West Africa, Dr Feyi Ogunade in his presentation said the research study report recommended to the commission to formally extend its mandate to include Transnational Crime and establish a TOC unit with knowledgeable personnel.
Dr. Feyi said the report further recommended the adoption of a more systematic and comprehensive approach including guidelines to address the rights implications of TOC.
“Through regional and international initiatives such as ECOWAS, African States can enhance their ability to combat Transnational Organised Crimes (TOCs), and promote accountability,” he stated.
European Union representative, Mr. Raphael Brigandi, opined that organised crimes transcend borders threatening governance systems peace, and development.
“Globalisation developments have unfortunately created multiple opportunities for organised criminal groups. The ENACT project is committed to strengthening Africa’s capacity to combat transnational organised crimes. The African Commission plays a vital role in promoting and protecting human rights across the continent,” the EU representative asserted.
