On April 6, the All Africa Conference of Churches (AACC) unveiled the biennial Pan-African Human Rights Award and will accept nominations for the inaugural recipient until April 30. The AACC is an ecumenical fellowship that represents the continent of Africa.

According to the World Council of Churches, ideal nominees for the award include individuals or institutions who are, “currently active in the promotion of good governance, democracy, respect for human rights, justice, and the rule of law.” They also must be “working in an ethical and nonviolent way.” 

Nominations will be reviewed by The Human Rights Award Committee, which was assembled and inaugurated by the AACC’s General Secretary, Rev Dr. Fidon Mwombeki. Winners will be recognized at the 12th General Assembly and the 60th Anniversary Celebrations in Nigeria, where they will receive a trophy and a monetary prize. They will also be considered the new ambassadors for the award. 

The initiative aligns with the AACC’s commitment to equipping churches across Africa in their advocacy for human rights. Made up of over 140 million Christians and 193 congregations, their core value is “churches in Africa together for life, peace, and justice and dignity.” To enact this practically, the Conference provides resources and programs for four different sectors, including advocacy at the African Union; peace, service, and diplomacy; gender, women, and youth; and theology, interfaith relations and ecclesial leadership development. 

The Human Rights Award specifically nods to Agenda 2063, Africa’s fifty-year initiative to unite the continent, promote economic growth and prosperity, and encourage peace and safety among the people. As several of this movement’s goals relate to supporting and providing justice for women, youth, and underrepresented populations, the AACC hopes that this award will further boost the work already being done. 

“[This award] is long overdue,” Mwombeki said in a statement. “We believe [it] will create awareness of the importance of human rights in Africa. It will also recognize those who may not be recognized by other systems.”