We are profoundly saddened by the passing of Charles Ngwena—our dear friend, esteemed colleague, and tireless advocate for human rights, particularly sexual and reproductive rights. Through his scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy, he strengthened institutions, championed rights-based and inclusive laws, policies programmatic solutions, and ensured that Africa’s voice remained central to global human rights discourse.
Most importantly, he was, and remains, a dear colleague, friend, husband, father, grandfather and a truly amazing human being to remember and carry in our hearts.
On 20 February 2025, SRHM, in partnership with the Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria, the Global Health Justice Partnership at Yale Law School, the University of Toronto Faculty of Law and the Kenya Legal & Ethical Issues Network on HIV and AIDS (KELIN), held a one-hour online memorial in honour of Charles Ngwena.
Read more about his work and legacy at the Centre for Human Rights
You may wish to watch the memorial service in honour of Professor Charles Ngwena held by the Centre for Human Rights, Faculty of Law, University of Pretoria
SRHM is collecting memories, reflections and thoughts to celebrate Charles Ngwena’s remarkable legacy and reflect on his leadership in the vital work to which he dedicated his life. It is our hope that these reflections will inspire our further collective action and honour the memory of a dear leader in our field.
If you would like to contribute to this tribute, please email your thoughts and reflections to [email protected]. Please also contact us if you would like the recording of the online memorial.
Tribute messages to Charles Ngwena
It was an incredible privilege to work alongside Prof. Ngwena on the Disability Rights Yearbook and at the disability rights conference. He was an inspiring force—insightful, strategic, and thorough in everything he did. Above all, he was a consummate professional who genuinely cared about the people he worked with. In many ways, he was a mentor, a father figure, and a friend all rolled into one. His values were firm, and his respect for education ran deep. I’ll never forget him saying that no price is too high for a good education, a belief he lived by with integrity. He had an unwavering focus on what mattered most to him—thinking, reading, and writing—and he never allowed distractions to sway him from his path. His devotion to his family was equally inspiring; he made sure to communicate that he would prioritize them whenever he could. I don’t know where he found the time – but he wrote numerous letters of reference for so many of us for jobs, scholarships and other opportunities. He was so generous with his time when it came to supporting colleagues and mentees. I learned so much from Prof. Ngwena, and I’ll always be grateful for the opportunity to work with him. Rest in peace, Prof. Until we meet again.
Director, Disability Rights Division
Human Rights Watch
Prof Charles was a GIANT in the field and his wisdom will live on through the impact he has had on me.
I learnt a lot from Prof Charles and am grateful for the opportunity I had to work with him.
My sincere condolences to prof Charles’ family.
I met Prof Charles in the cold corridors of the Johannes Brill Building at the University of the Free State during the early days of my career. Little did I know the lasting impact he would have on my life and career. He was the most gentle giant. His presence commanded respect, yet his kindness and humility made him approachable to anyone who sought his wisdom.
Our discussions on disability rights were transformative lessons that shaped my understanding and passion for advocacy on behalf of those with disabilities. His depth of knowledge, unwavering commitment to justice, and dedication to empowering others left an enduring impact on me.
Prof Charles played a major role in my career, and I am forever grateful for the opportunity to have learned from him. His work will continue to inspire me, and I will honour his legacy by carrying forward his contributions.
Rest in peace, Prof Charles. Your impact will never fade.
Ms Laetitia Fourie
Lecturer in Law, University of the Free State
Charles Ngwena’s remarkable life and legacy will forever be etched in our hearts and minds. As a renowned professor, esteemed colleague, and tireless advocate for human rights, he left an indelible mark on the world.
Through his scholarship, mentorship, and advocacy, Charles strengthened institutions, championed inclusive laws and policies, and ensured Africa’s voice remained central to global human rights discourse. His work had a profound impact on the lives of countless individuals, particularly in the areas of sexual and reproductive rights.
As a testament to his dedication and leadership, Charles was a driving force behind numerous initiatives and collaborations. His partnership with various organizations, including the Centre for Human Rights, University of Pretoria, and the Global Health Justice Partnership at Yale Law School, helped shape the global human rights agenda.
Charles’s legacy extends far beyond his impressive academic and professional achievements. He was a dear friend, husband, father, grandfather, and an extraordinary human being who inspired countless individuals with his kindness, compassion, and generosity.
messages for stakeholders’ engagements.
Prof Ngwena’s influence on my life and career is immeasurable. He taught me not only how to be a rigorous scholar but also how to be a generous mentor and a thoughtful and ethical advocate for social justice. He instilled in me the importance of challenging assumptions, pushing boundaries, and always striving to make a difference. His legacy, oh what a legacy, will continue to inspire me and countless others for years to come.
I take heart that Prof Ngwena is now in a better place. He ran the race of life in very grand style. In his shadows, we continue to walk and work.
Adieu, Professor Charles Ngwena!
Satang Nabaneh
Read the full tribute: Learning from an intellectual Giant: A Tribute to Professor Charles Ngwena