For almost two decades, Muluka-Anne Miti has championed justice, dignity and equality for some of the world's most vulnerable people, becoming a leading voice for the rights of people with albinism.
Today, Muluka-Anne became an Honorary Doctor of Laws at University of Staffordshire's Summer Awards ceremonies held in Stoke-on-Trent.
She said: “It is a profound honour to accept this honorary doctorate from the University of Staffordshire, and I do so with deep gratitude and humility.”
Addressing the the graduating cohort, Muluka added: “Congratulations to each and every one of you. May your dreams be bold, your learning never cease, and may every obstacle become an opportunity that leads you somewhere even greater than you imagined.”
In 2021, Muluka-Anne was appointed the United Nations Independent Expert on the enjoyment of human rights by people with albinism. Since taking up the role, she has undertaken fact-finding missions across Africa, Latin America and the Pacific, producing influential reports for the UN Human Rights Council and General Assembly.
Her work has shone a spotlight on the harmful practices linked to witchcraft accusations and ritual attacks, which disproportionately affect people with albinism. Through her leadership, she championed the implementation of UN Resolution 47/8, helping ensure these abuses are recognised as serious human rights violations requiring urgent international action.
Alongside her global work, Muluka-Anne has made a significant contribution to University of Staffordshire as a Visiting Fellow, helping to strengthen the University's international research profile. Working with academics including Dr Samantha Spence, she has advanced research into superstition-related violence and the protection of human rights.
Originally from Zambia, Muluka-Anne has held senior leadership positions with Amnesty International, the Southern Africa Litigation Centre and the International Bar Association's Human Rights Institute. Throughout her career, she has also championed media freedom, accountability and access to justice.
University Chancellor Major Levison Wood, said: "Muluka-Anne has spent her career fighting for the rights of people who are most at risk of discrimination and violence, taking on that fight in courtrooms, in policy rooms, and on the ground in some of the hardest places to do this work.
"This honorary degree celebrates that commitment, and the real difference she's made - both through her work around the world and through what she’s brought to University of Staffordshire."