By Fahim Muyingo
KAMPALA. The Afro-Arab Youth Council (AAYC) has joined communities and institutions worldwide in commemorating the International Day for People of African Descent, reaffirming the need to advance human rights, dignity, equality and justice for people of African descent.
The commemoration, observed on August 31, provides an opportunity to reflect on the shared history, identity and aspirations of African people while highlighting the role of young people in building a more inclusive and equitable future.
The 2026 observance is being held under the theme “Expanding the Human Rights of People of African Descent”, as part of the Second International Decade for People of African Descent, which runs from 2025 to 2034.
According to the United Nations, this year’s observance seeks to build on the achievements of the first International Decade while accelerating action around three key pillars: Recognition, Justice and Development.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres said the second International Decade provides an opportunity to confront the historical injustices and lasting consequences of colonialism and slavery, particularly the transatlantic slave trade.
“We must continue our fight to right these wrongs by acknowledging the historical facts and enduring repercussions of colonialism and slavery, in particular the transatlantic slave trade,” Guterres said.
He added that the second International Decade offers an opportunity to drive meaningful progress in addressing the challenges facing people of African descent.
The United Nations has also called for stronger collaboration among Member States, civil society, the UN system and people of African descent to promote and protect human rights globally.
The 2026 observance places particular emphasis on strengthening legal, policy and institutional measures to combat racism, racial discrimination, xenophobia and related intolerance.
It also highlights the need to ensure the full enjoyment of economic, social, cultural, civil and political rights, including equal access to education, employment, healthcare, housing and economic opportunities.
For the AAYC, the priorities are closely linked to its efforts to promote youth empowerment, solidarity and cooperation across Africa and the Arab world.
The Council said the commemoration should also serve as a reminder of the importance of recognising the contributions of people of African descent and strengthening efforts to ensure that their rights, dignity and potential are fully respected.
As the world enters the second International Decade for People of African Descent, the AAYC reaffirmed its commitment to the principles of Recognition, Justice and Development, while pledging to strengthen solidarity among young people across Africa, the Arab world and the wider African diaspora.
The Council said young people have a critical role to play in challenging discrimination, promoting inclusion and building societies where diversity is respected and everyone can contribute to development.
The International Day for People of African Descent is therefore not only a commemoration of history, but also a call for sustained action to address inequalities and advance a future grounded in equality, justice and human dignity.
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