Mudavadi: The world must confront enduring colonialism

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi addressing the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland.

Prime Cabinet Secretary and Foreign and Diaspora Affairs CS Musalia Mudavadi has affirmed that time was ripe for the world to confront enduring legacies of colonialism.

Speaking during the opening of the 58th Session of the Human Rights Council in Geneva, Switzerland, Mudavadi urged the world to address contemporary manifestations of colonialism and to build a just globe.

Mudavadi reaffirmed Kenya’s commitment to advocating for marginalised groups, particularly in the face of rising xenophobia, afrophobia, and racial discrimination.

Mudavadi said Kenya, as the current Chair Rapporteur of the Intergovernmental Working Group on the Durban Declaration, is dedicated to combating racism and related intolerance.

“It is important to mention that the 2025 AU Theme of the year ‘Justice for Africans and The People of the African Descent Through Reparations’; a clear demonstration of Africa’s commitment to justice, accountability and the recognition of historical injustices,” said Mudavadi.

The Prime Cabinet Secretary added that Kenya recognises the evolving landscape of human rights challenges in the digital age and is committed to addressing them proactively.

“We further recognise the challenges that emerging technologies present, such as disinformation campaigns fueled by generative AI, weaponisation of technology, and its dual-use nature, which must be mitigated,” said Mudavadi.

However, as the "Silicon Savannah" of Africa, the PCS said Kenya was also alive to the transformative potential of technologies such as Artificial Intelligence in advancing development; and is thus developing a National AI Strategy 2025-2030 that focuses on strengthening data sovereignty and inclusive development. 

He urged the Human Rights Council to play a crucial role in promoting equitable access to emerging technologies, critical infrastructure, and skills necessary for full participation in the information society.

On global peace, Mudavadi said increased cases of wars and conflict lead to grave violations of human rights as reflected in the rising cases of crimes against humanity, war crimes, and even genocide.

He said that the world is today witnessing violent conflicts characterised by indiscriminate attacks on civilian populations, including schools and hospitals, the use of sexual and gender-based violence as a weapon of war, a rise in violent extremism, decimation of economic livelihoods, and forced displacements. 

Mudavadi noted that the United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees in its "Global Appeal 2025", projects that over 139 million people globally will be forcibly displaced or become stateless by the end of 2025 due to conflicts.