In a significant endorsement of his enduring commitment to justice and social equity, King Ayitey Anumle Oyanka I of Ghana has been named Chairman of the International Human Rights Association (IHRA) for the West African region.

The appointment underscores King Oyanka’s growing influence in global human rights governance and his leadership in promoting inclusive development across Africa.

The IHRA, a globally recognised organisation affiliated with United Nations agencies and the International Bar Association, announced the appointment as part of its strategic expansion across the African continent.

This new role signals the Association’s intent to deepen its footprint in West Africa and bolster regional efforts in advancing human rights, equity, and grassroots development.

Operating with a mission to build a just and fearless society anchored in truth and nonviolence, the IHRA supports marginalised communities, including persons with disabilities, the elderly, widows, and low-income households, regardless of caste, creed, gender, or religion.

Its interventions span a wide spectrum—from health and agriculture to youth affairs, social justice, rural development, legal aid, and environmental stewardship.

King Oyanka’s appointment is expected to enhance IHRA’s capacity to reach underserved areas and catalyse collaboration between traditional leadership, modern governance institutions, and international partners. In accepting the new role, he reaffirmed his commitment to the values of human dignity and justice.

“I am honoured to serve in this capacity and I take this responsibility seriously. It is a call to work for the protection of human dignity, equity, and justice, especially for the voiceless. I look forward to collaborating with governments, civil society, and international partners to advance the rights of every individual across West Africa,” he stated.

As a traditional ruler and Chair of the Anamase Royal Alliance Council in Ghana’s Eastern Region, King Oyanka has long championed humanitarian causes.

His work in education, particularly child welfare, earned him the title of Honorary Emissary of Education for West Africa by the Montessori Model United Nations in 2024. He also holds a previous appointment as Chairman of the World Human Rights Council for Ghana and Africa.

Further cementing his legacy, King Oyanka is the subject of a recently published biography, “The Leadership Experience and Life of King Oyanka: The Digital Crypto Assets King of Africa”, which details his journey as a traditional leader, digital innovator, and human rights advocate.

Though yet to be officially launched, the book is already available on international platforms, including Amazon.

The IHRA’s decision to entrust King Oyanka with its West African operations is seen by observers as a strategic alignment of traditional authority with global human rights objectives—an effort to harmonise indigenous leadership with universal principles of justice and equality.