The Fourth African Human Rights and Business Forum is taking place from 7th to 9th October, 2025 under the theme ‘From Commitment to Action: Advancing Remedy, Reparations, and Responsible Business Conduct in Africa.’

Zambia, this year’s host, has convened the Forum in its capital city, Lusaka, which has attracted the participation of 521 delegates from 73 countries worldwide.

Zambia’s Minister of Justice, Hon. Princess Kasune, officially opened the fourth African Human Rights and Business Forum in Lusaka at the Taj Pamodzi Hotel.

“Africa is at the crossroads, seeing increased investment in its economy. Which is a good thing, but it should not come at the expense of a destroyed environment and displaced or poorly compensated local communities,” the Minister said.

She called on Africans to hold their elected leaders and businesses on the continent accountable for investment decisions that impact the vulnerable in society.

The Forum is being held at a time when Africa is seeking homegrown solutions to the challenges faced by African nations in finding a healthy balance between investment and responsible business conduct that upholds human rights.

Human Rights Commission Zambia (HRC-Z) yesterday participated in a breakaway session on ‘Documenting and Responding to Attacks: Addressing gaps and Strengthening Protection of Human Rights Defenders in Africa,’ sharing its experiences in protecting the rights of human rights defenders in the country.

During this panel discussion, HRC-Z Research and Mechanisms Manager, Mr. Lisbon Chaamwe called for improved data collection and storage on the abuses and violations of the rights of human rights defenders in Africa.