African Ombudsmen and Mediators met in mid September 2011 in Addis Abeba to hold executive committee meeting of the association.

The delegates also marked international democracy day by reaffirming commitment and contribution to the promotion of democracy, good governance and the rule of law in the continent.

Chief Ombudsman of the Ethiopian Institution of the Ombudsman commended the institution for securing observer status at the African union. She expressed her belief that the opportunity will solidify AOMA’s visibility at continental level and serve as an entry point for AOMA to improve the role of African ombudsman associations in the oversight functions of their governments.

This month, the Ethiopian Institution of the Ombudsman shared its expeirences and best practice in relation to the protection and promotion of the rights of children at an international conference organized in Oslo, Norway. The conference was orgnaized by Save the Children Norway, with several countries represented.

A four member EIO delegation led by the Deputy Chief Ombudsman W/ro Serawit Seleshi and the Children and Women Affairs Ombudsman W/ro Saniya Sani represented the Ethiopian delegation.

A four-member EIO delegation had a working visit to the Ghanaian Public Records and Achieves Administration Department (PRAAD) in early October 2011. Upon arrival, the delegation was welcomed by Mr. Felix Nyarko Ampong, PRAAD’s AG. Director.

The delegation comprising members from the Freedom of Information Directorate and one from the Investigation and Maladministration Prevention was briefed on the historical background and establishment of PRAAD, Achieves and Records Management Framework of Ghana, Records Management and Registry Practices, and Repository among others.