We are deeply saddened by the passage of Charles Ngwena – our dear friend, our honorable colleague and the tireless human rights supporter, especially sexual and reproductive rights. Through his scholarship, guidance and defense, he strengthened the institutions, provided for laws based on rights and comprehensive, political programming solutions and ensured that Africa’s voice remained central to global human rights.
Most importantly, he was, and remains, a dear colleague, friend, wife, father, grandfather and a truly amazing man to remember and transfer to our hearts.
On February 20, 2025, SRHM, in collaboration with the Pretoria University of Human Rights Center, the World Health Company at Yale Law School at the University of Toronto and the Kenya Law Network for the HIV and AIDS network (Kelin).
Read more about his work and heritage at the Human Rights Center
If you want to contribute to this tribute, send your thoughts and thoughts [email protected]. Contact us if you want to record the electronic monument.
Tribute Messages to Charles Ngwena
It was an incredible privilege to work with Professor Ngwena on the annual book of disability rights and the conference of disability rights. It was an inspirational power – built -in, strategy and thorough in what it did. Above all, he was a flawless professional who really cared about the people he worked with. In many ways, he was a mentor, a father figure and a friend ran into one. His values were stable and his respect for education ran deeply. I will never forget him by saying that no price is too high for a good education, a belief that lived with integrity. He had a firm focus on what was most important to him – thinking, reading and writing – and never allowed you to distract him on his path. His dedication to his family was equally inspired. He made sure to contact that he would prioritize them whenever he could. I don’t know where he found time – but he wrote many reference letters for so many of us for jobs, scholarships and other opportunities. He was so generous with his time when he came to support colleagues and mentors. I learned so much from Professor Ngwena, and I will always be grateful for the opportunity to work with him. Rest peacefully, a teacher until we meet again.
Dr. Elizabeth Kamundia
Director, Disability Rights Address
Human rights
Professor Charles was a giant in the field and his wisdom will live through his impact on me.
I learned a lot from Prof Charles and I am grateful for the opportunity to work with him.
Forever influenced,
Dianne Massawe
My sincere condolences to the Prof Charles family.
I met Prof Charles in the cold corridors of the building Johannes Brill at the University of the Free State during the first days of my career. I knew a little bit of the constant impact he would have on my life and career. He was the noblest giant. His presence ordered respect, but his kindness and humility made him accessible to anyone who asked for his wisdom.
Our debate on disability rights were transformative lessons that shaped my understanding and my passion for defending on behalf of people with disabilities. The depth of his knowledge, the steadfast commitment to justice and the dedication to the empowerment of others left a constant effect on me.
Professor Charles played an important role in my career and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to learn from him. His work will continue to inspire me and I will honor his inheritance by conducting his contributions.
Rest peacefully, Prof Charles. Your impact will never fade.
Mrs Laetitia Fourie
Lecturer, University of Free State
The remarkable life and heritage of Charles Ngwena will forever be in our hearts and minds. As a famous professor, a honorable colleague and a tireless supporter of human rights, he left an indelible mark on the world.
Through his scholarship, guidance and defense, Charles strengthened the institutions, supported laws and policies without exclusion and ensured that Africa’s voice remained central to worldwide for human rights. His work had a profound impact on the lives of countless people, especially in the fields of sexual and reproductive rights.
As proof of his dedication and leadership, Charles was a driving force behind numerous initiatives and collaborations. His collaboration with various organizations, including the Center for Human Rights, the University of Pretoria and the global corporate health comment in Yale Law School, has helped to shape the global human rights agenda.
Charles’ heritage extends far beyond his impressive academic and professional achievements. He was a dear friend, wife, father, grandfather and an excellent man who inspired countless people with his kindness, compassion and generosity.
We have lost us, sir forever.
Iorbee salmon
Professor Charles Ngwena, when approved by our cabinet paper and the conclusion of the cabinet reached, you promised me that you would travel to Sierra Leone to celebrate with us while introducing the SRMR bill. I owe you the strategic skills and defense tactics to you. I will definitely miss me, especially when I am able to develop defense
messages for the commitments of interested parties.
The eternal bright concession to this Lord, and can illuminate lasting shine on the humble soul of Ijn, Amen.
Fodie Paul Oniel Kamara
Professor Ngwena’s influence on my life and career is incalculable. He taught me not only how to be a strict scholar but also how to be a generous mentor and a thoughtful and moral supporter of social justice. It inspired within me the importance of provocative affairs, pressing the boundaries and always trying to make the difference. His legacy, oh what her legacy, will continue to inspire countless others for the coming years.
I take heart that Ngwena teacher is now in a better position. He ran the struggle of life in a very big style. In his shadows, we continue to walk and work.
Adieu, Professor Charles Ngwena!
Satang nabaneh
Read the full tribute: Learning from a spiritual giant: a tribute to Professor Charles Ngweena
