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Official opening group photo
The 2nd International Ombud Expo (IOE) 2024 concluded on a high note, reaffirming the crucial role of Ombud institutions in strengthening governance, upholding human rights, and ensuring good public administration. Hosted in Gaborone, Botswana, from July 29 to August 2, 2024, the event brought together 541 delegates, including Ombud offices, human rights bodies, grievance handlers, and integrity organisations from over 100 countries.
Under the theme “Trusted Institutions: Righting Injustices, Bolstering Quality Governance” the Expo was a dynamic platform for learning, engagement, and collaboration. Delegates participated in expert-led workshops, thematic discussions, and an extensive exhibition showcasing the impact of Ombud institutions worldwide. Topics ranged from the intersection of human rights and national human rights institutions, the role and functions of specialty institutions inclusive of military and security sector ombuds, conflict resolution, and anti-corruption strategies to citizen engagement and the role of oversight institutions in ensuring good governance.
The opening ceremony, graced by the then Vice President of Botswana, Honourable Slumber Tsogwane, set a galvanic tone for the event. Throughout the week, delegates had the opportunity to benchmark best practices, exchange insights, and explore innovative approaches to institutional effectiveness. The Expo also provided a valuable networking space, fostering connections among Ombud leaders, policymakers, corporate executives, and civil society representatives.
Beyond its formal proceedings, IOE 2024 highlighted Botswana’s role as an emerging player in global governance discussions, reinforcing its commitment to transparency, accountability, and justice. The ceremony also featured vibrant cultural performances, celebrating Botswana’s rich heritage, and reinforcing the Expo’s spirit of unity and shared purpose. The event’s success was a testament to the collective efforts and support of all participants, speakers, and organizers who contributed to making it a meaningful and impactful gathering.
It is worth noting that the International Ombudsman Institution (IOI)’s invaluable financial support towards the event planning could not have come at a better time, as it made it possible for the participation of the AOMA Secretariat AORC and some institutions which could not afford exhibition stalls and have their accommodation costs subsidised.
As we look forward to future engagements, the International Ombud Expo remains a memorable cornerstone for knowledge-sharing and strengthening global partnerships in the pursuit of good governance. Locally it provided for partnerships with ministries, departments, and agencies in delivering a memorable platform for participants including border transition, security, medical facilities, etc making it an “all-of-government” effort.
Pictures from the event, capturing key moments and the vibrant participation, that made IOE 2024 a memorable experience, can be viewed below.
Source: Office of the Public Protector, South Africa
