MONROVIA – Today, the Subcommittee on Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations, a part of the U.S. House Foreign Affairs Committee, will convene a highly anticipated hearing to discuss efforts aimed at addressing ritual abuse and sacrifice in Africa.
People close to the planned hearing told Smart News specific focus will be placed on Liberia, which has been identified as one of the countries grappling with this grave issue.
Titled “Efforts to Address Ritual Abuse and Sacrifice in Africa,” the hearing aims to shed light on the prevalence and consequences of ritual abuse and sacrifice practices in Africa and explore potential strategies to combat this heinous crime.
The subcommittee recognizes the urgency of the matter and seeks to engage experts and stakeholders in a constructive dialogue.
According to a statement released by the United States Congress, the hearing will feature testimony from Dr. Alan White, a renowned expert in the field of cultural anthropology and human rights.
Dr. Alan White, is Co-Executive Director, for a new NGO, Advocacy Foundation for Human Rights. White is also a former prosecutor for the former United Nations Special Court on Sierra Leone. Miriam Fullah, Trafficking in Persons Protection Manager of World Hope International, and Obed Byamugisha, Program Advisor for Kyampisi Childcare Ministries, will also testify.
Diplomatic sources told Smart News that the situation in Liberia regarding the death of several auditors and the disappearance of three Liberian males at the St. Moses Funeral Home, amongst others will be discussed.
During the hearing, Dr. White and other panelists are expected to emphasize the need for a comprehensive approach that combines legislative efforts, international collaboration, and community engagement to address this deeply rooted problem. They will likely highlight the importance of raising awareness, strengthening law enforcement, and supporting social programs that promote education and economic opportunities as crucial steps toward eradicating ritual abuse and sacrifice practices.
The Subcommittee on Global Health, Global Human Rights, and International Organizations is composed of members of Congress who have demonstrated a commitment to human rights and international cooperation. By convening this hearing, they aim to bring attention to the urgent issue of ritual abuse and sacrifice and encourage meaningful action at both the national and international levels.
Ritual abuse and sacrifice have long been a concern in various parts of Africa, and Liberia has been identified as a country where these practices persist. The United States, as a global leader in human rights advocacy, seeks to support efforts to protect vulnerable populations and combat such violations.
As the hearing unfolds today, stakeholders and experts will further discuss the gravity of the issue, examine potential solutions, and explore ways to coordinate international efforts to address ritual abuse and sacrifice in Africa. The hope is that this hearing will serve as a catalyst for further discussions, partnerships, and policy initiatives aimed at ending these abhorrent practices and protecting the rights and dignity of individuals in Liberia and beyond.
