Sponsored by our ally, the New Mexicans for Science and Reason, this talk at UNM Continuing Education by Dr. Leo Igwe reveals that witch hunts in modern Africa continue. The following is from Dave Thomas, who spoke to our group in 2025. 

While witch hunts ended in the West centuries ago, this superstition-based abuse persists with force and ferocity in Africa. Alleged witches, which include women, children and elderly persons are targeted by those motivated by occult fears and anxieties. Accused persons are subjected to trial by ordeal and jungle justice; they are attacked, banished and murdered in cold blood.

Using data from the Advocacy for Alleged Witches, this presentation shows that ending witch hunts is an unfinished task. It highlights efforts by advocates to combat violations linked to magical beliefs and ritual attacks. This presentation argues that, in an increasing interconnected world, ending witch hunts is a global responsibility, and requires both global and local approaches and responses.

Dr. Leo Igwe is a longtime activist and author fighting to end superstition, human rights abuses, and witchcraft accusations in his native Nigeria and throughout Africa.

Igwe writes “I am a humanist because humanity, individual freedom and social responsibility, critical thinking, happiness in this only life we have, tolerance and compassion for one another constitute the mainstay of my philosophical outlook.”

Maps for the venue are available at http://nmsr.org/meetings.htm#latest