The recognition and protection of Indigenous populations in Africa remain a significant and ongoing challenge, despite the legal frameworks established by regional instruments, such as the African Charter on Human and Peoples’ Rights (the Banjul Charter), for more than two decades. This chapter explores the paradox between the legal recognition of Indigenous peoples’ rights and the persistent political and economic forces that prevent their full realization. While the 2003/2005 ACHPR Reports were groundbreaking in identifying Indigenous communities in Africa and addressing common misconceptions about their status, the lack of implementation of these decisions continues to marginalize these communities. Focusing on the tension between acceptance, nonacceptance, and partial acceptance of Indigenous populations by African states, this chapter examines historical legacies, contemporary justice, and the misconceptions that shape the ongoing debate. Drawing from preliminary findings from ongoing mapping studies of Indigenous communities and critical legal cases, such as the Ogiek case, this chapter argues that, while the legal principles are clear, the gap between law and practice in implementing Indigenous rights remains wide. Furthermore, it calls for a more robust accountability structure within the African Union to enforce Indigenous rights decisions and create pathways for effective implementation. By centering Indigenous voices and experiences, the chapter seeks to bridge the gap between legal recognition and political action, providing a critical reflection on how African states can fulfill their obligations under the African Charter and align with regional and international human rights standards.