The profound loss of Prof Charles Ngwena to academia is deeply felt by the disability rights community through the indelible mark he left on us. Prof Ngwena, the convening editor of the African Disability Rights Yearbook since 2013, sought to bring together scholars on the continent and allies outside its boundaries, to inculcate rich scholarship contextualised to Global South concerns and solutions.
His ability to foster connections between people and ideas, cemented disability rights in Africa as a discrete source of critique and innovation on law and policy impacting positively on the rights of persons with disabilities. His mentorship of emerging scholars, in a steadfast, humble and gracious manner, ensured that his legacy will be carried forward in various capacities. Prof Ngwena was a prolific author, both in sexual reproductive health rights and disability rights. As to the latter, he inspired countless students and scholars with his incisive commentary on domestic and international law, with an unparalleled understanding of regional African law.
Prof Ngwena wove his prodigious talent into various projects which were often interrelated and mutually supporting, such as his post graduate supervision, the influential annual African Disability Rights Conference since 2013 and the LLM in Disability Rights since 2018. Again, it bears mentioning that his ability to weave connections in many ways made the tapestry of his influence across the globe unparalleled. Two of the editors of this edition of the Yearbook were doctoral students of Prof Ngwena. As we pay tribute to the mensch we lost, we, and many scholars and students touched by him, remain committed to carrying forward disability rights in Africa.
Prof Willene Holness
On behalf of the Editorial Committee of the African Disability Rights Yearbook
