09/01/2026
JHR: Journalists for Human Rights Kenya was honoured to co-convene the landmark Dialogue on the Bamako Convention Regional Clearing-House Mechanism (CHM) at United States International University - Africa in partnership with the & UN Environment Programme Regional Office for Africa.
We brought together diplomats, UN officials, academics, journalists, students & civil society to mark the operational launch of a vital African-owned digital platform. The CHM is a transformative tool for transparency, data-sharing, and early warning on hazardous waste across the continent.
🌟 Key Highlights
· From Development to Action: The CHM is now live! This platform centralizes hazardous waste data, legislation, reports, and media content, empowering informed reporting and policy-making.
· Amplifying African Voices: The dialogue reinforced the Bamako Convention as a sovereign African response to hazardous waste dumping, born from the collective "No" of African nations.
· Bridging the Gap: We addressed the "generational disconnect" in environmental storytelling, emphasizing the need for creative, multimedia journalism to make complex issues accessible.
· Power of Collaboration: Insights from Somalia, Rwanda, and other Member States highlighted the critical link between strong legal frameworks, public awareness, and regional cooperation.
· Empowering New Narratives: Students and journalists were encouraged to engage with the CHM as contributors and users, shaping the narrative on environmental justice.
Why This Matters
As Prof. Ruth of USIU–Africa stated: "How we break down information determines whether society truly understands environmental issues." This initiative is about more than data—it's about equipping a generation with the tools to protect people and the planet.
We extend our deepest gratitude to all partners, participants, and the dynamic USIU–Africa community. The journey continues as we work to ensure every signatory nation ratifies and utilizes this mechanism.
👉 Call to Action
To journalists, researchers, and students, engage with the CHM!
Register here 👉🏿
www.bamakoconvention.org to explore, and contribute to this crucial repository of African environmental data.
Together, let's build a future where information drives action and justice.