Great news from ADF! The African Disability Forum is pleased to announce the entering into force of the African Disability Protocol, formally known as ‘The Protocol to the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights on the Rights of Persons with Disabilities in Africa’ per July 2024. This protocol complements the UNCRPD, adding a more African focus. This protocol, adopted in 2018, addresses the unique challenges faced by people with disabilities. It explicitly states, for instance, the situation of persons with albinism and the right to adequate food for persons with disabilities.
When the legislative document was adopted by the African Union (AU) in 2018, it was agreed that the protocol would only enter into force once 15 African Union Member States had ratified. With the most recent ratification by the Democratic Republic of Congo, the ADP is now legally binding.
Now, AU member states have to ensure that the African Disability Protocol is incorporated into national legislation and policies. Within two years, the member states should update the African Union on their progress of implementation. After these two years, individuals can claim their rights before courts at local, national or international level, since the Protocol ensures access to justice.
Organizations of People with Disabilities (OPDs), on both local and national level, can assist member states in implementing the protocol. Here lie opportunities for the OPDs within the We are Able! program, especially in Burundi, Uganda, and DR Congo as part of the group of countries that ratified the ADP. Our consortium will also continue to advocate for implementation and enforcement of the Protocol in the other We are Able! countries.
Access the Protocol here or read more about the African Disability Protocol on the website of ADF here.
