Dennis Orengo Juma, a passionate human rights defender from Nairobi County, has always been deeply committed to standing up for those who are often silenced or forgotten. His work focuses on advocating against police abuse of power and promoting the rights of children, widows, persons with disabilities, and refugees. In 2023, Dennis attended the Human Rights Defenders (HRD) Academy, an experience that not only sharpened his skills but transformed how he approaches his mission of justice.

When Dennis reflects on his time at the HRD Academy, he doesn’t just recall the knowledge gained but the personal growth he experienced. “The training on proper advocacy was life-changing,” Dennis says. “I learned how to craft more effective messages, how to target the right stakeholders, and, importantly, how to measure the impact of my work.” Armed with this new understanding, Dennis began applying these strategies on the ground. His advocacy for children’s rights in Kericho led to crucial conversations about education and protection, while his legal aid efforts for widows in Kajiado provided a lifeline for women often left without support. In Kakuma, he became a voice for refugees navigating the complexities of displacement and marginalization.

One of the most impactful projects Dennis took on after the academy was the development of a Social Justice Mobile App. The app is designed to help vulnerable communities—those at the margins of society—access information and resources related to justice. However, Dennis knew that building the app wasn’t something he could do alone. He reached out to the networks he had built during the HRD Academy, and 23 graduates came forward to help test the app. For three months, they provided feedback, helping Dennis refine and improve the app until it became a reliable tool for the people it was meant to serve. “That collaboration was powerful,” Dennis reflects. “It showed me that we can achieve so much more when we work together. The app wouldn’t be what it is today without their support.”

While the technical skills and advocacy tools he gained at the HRD Academy were invaluable, it was the human connections and sense of community that left the deepest mark on Dennis. He recalls the academy’s opening and closing ceremonies as moments of profound inspiration. Participants from all over Kenya, each with their own unique culture, came together to celebrate through dance, music, and the use of local dialects. “That experience moved me,” Dennis says. “It was a reminder of how diverse and rich our country is. It made me realize I want to connect with as many communities as possible because we have so much to learn from each other. Our differences are our strength.”

For Dennis, the HRD Academy wasn’t just about enhancing his professional capacity; it was about deepening his connection to the people and cultures he serves. He recognizes the challenges human rights defenders face, particularly when it comes to securing resources, but he is hopeful. “Funding is a challenge for many of us,” he admits. “But with the right support, we can scale up our efforts and reach even more people who need help.”

As he continues his journey, Dennis remains dedicated to amplifying the voices of the vulnerable and pushing for systemic change. Whether through his advocacy for children’s rights, his legal aid work, or the mobile app that now connects marginalized communities to justice resources, Dennis Orengo Juma’s mission is clear: to empower the voiceless and ensure that justice is within reach for all. His story is one of resilience, collaboration, and an unwavering belief in the power of community, and he continues to inspire others through his tireless efforts to make the world a more just and equitable place.

FOR IMMEDIATE  PRESS RELEASE

MOMBASA, Kenya, September 19^th, 2024 – State of Civic Space Under Siege

As we come to the close of the 4th Civic Space Protection Summit, we  wish to express our  disappointment over the current state of civic space in Kenya which is still troubling even as Kenya joined the other countries in the celebrations of International Day of Democracy on the 15th of September 2024. The state has, over the past 24 months, demonstrated that they have no regard for the Constitution, Independent oversight bodies and the civil society.

Defiance of court orders and people’s wishes by the state senior state officials continue to be one of the key challenges to advancement of civil liberties in the country. We condemn this culture of impunity and expect the Acting IG Masengeli will lead by example by obeying the court order and present himself to the Commissioner General of Prisons to begin serving his 6 month sentence. Failure to do so, Kenyans will expect the Interior Cabinet Secretary to initiate steps to have him committed. We would like to remind the government that the primary reason for court summons against the Acting IG is to ensure that the Kitengela 3 are produced in court -we still demand their immediate  unconditional release. Should the CS fail to initiate the steps, we urge the public to initiate citizens’ arrest against Masengeli.

The right to peaceful protest, enshrined in Article 37 of our Constitution, remains under severe attack. As recent events such as the #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests have shown, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and abductions by state actors have become far too common. We are reaffirming our stance that these violations must end. We will continue to hold security agencies accountable for their actions and demand justice for those whose rights have been violated. The Assemblies and Demonstrations Bill of 2024 which is on the floor of the National Assembly is one of the indications that the state has no intention of implementing the Constitution. Over sixty civil society leaders and human rights defenders have lost their lives over the past two years. The courage of those who have sacrificed their lives, freedoms, and livelihoods in defense of justice, equality, and human dignity. We demand the suspension and interdiction of the police officers involved in these criminal acts and continued harassment and abductions. We further condemn the police actions against Trever Mathege Mureithi, a first year student at Multimedia University  who was severely injured and had teargas canister lobbed at him at close range. He is currently admitted to a medical facility in critical condition. The use of such lethal crowd control weapons by the NPS has been normalized despite a court order banning their use.

Despite the robust framework on public participation under the Constitution, we continue to witness deliberate and negligently abdication of its duty to engage the public in the development process especially those that have negative consequences on taxpayers. As such, over the past months, we have witnessed erosion of fiscal accountability, observing how mismanagement of public resources directly impacts human rights. The last two years have shown us that authoritarian leadership, coupled with corruption, is not just a fiscal issue but a human rights one. The mismanagement of public funds, widespread corruption, and the intimidation of oversight institutions not only violate our right to transparent governance but also limit the government’s ability to provide essential services to its citizens. The recent case of Adani procurement is a classic example of states deliberate effort to subvert the constitution to the benefit of a few. We want to call for stronger independent institutions, greater accountability, and an end to the misuse of state agencies to suppress dissent.

Kenya has one of the most vibrant digital activism in the globe. However, while the young people have embraced this space, the state has continued to use repressive tactics and administrative actions to suppress freedoms. State surveillance that leads to abduction and cyber bullying and propaganda has led to self-censorship. We stand firm in our commitment to defend digital rights and ensure that the internet remains a space for free expression, advocacy, and civic engagement.

We wish to end by reaffirming our strong position in its mission to protect, promote, and expand civic space in Kenya. The road ahead may be tough, but we are resilient. Our democracy depends on it.

Thank You.

Signed by

STATEMENT ON THE WITHDRAWAL OF SECURITY DETAIL OF HON JUSTICE LAWRENCE MUGAMBI

Monday, 16 September 2024, Nairobi

The Defenders Coalition expresses concern over the withdrawal of security detail for Hon. Justice Lawrence Mugambi, a High Court Judge in Kenya’s Constitutional and Human Rights Division. This action violates Article 260 of the Constitution, which mandates security provisions for state officers, including judges, due to the nature of their duties. We emphasize that judges are entitled to security, and this benefit cannot be arbitrarily revoked.

The withdrawal of the security details comes in the wake of the judicial decision by the Hon Judge to find the Acting Inspector General of Police in contempt of court orders requiring him to give a detailed account of the whereabouts of two human rights defenders namely Bob Njagi, Jamil Longton and his brother Aslam Longton. Such withdrawal of the Judge’s security detail is only tantamount to threats and intimidation of Judges in the exercise of their Constitutional mandate of defending the rule of law and democracy.

On 9^th September 2024, Justice Mugambi disclosed that a senior police officer had been prying into his whereabouts. This raises serious concerns over possible intimidation or threats against him.

The Basic Principles on the independence of the Judiciary provide that the independence of the judiciary shall be guaranteed by the State and enshrined in the Constitution or the law of the country. All governmental and other institutions must respect and observe the independence of the judiciary. In addition, they provide that the judiciary shall decide matters before them impartially, based on facts and in accordance with the law, without any restrictions, improper influences, inducements, pressures, threats or interferences, direct or indirect, from any quarter or for any reason.

Article 160 of the Constitution provides for independence of the judiciary, this entails that Judges and Judicial Officers can exercise their mandate free of any fear or intimidation. It is appreciated that the Country’s Courts cannot be arm-twisted to render decisions contrary to the provisions of the law, facts, and any evidence adduced before them. We reiterate that judicial independence in its very nature ensures that access to justice, the rule of law, democratic processes, rights and freedoms are upheld in a democratic setting.

Judicial decisions are not applicable to a few individuals but to everyone regardless of position or status granted that no one is above the law. Equally, such decisions are not made in vain and are aimed at ensuring that the rule of law and Constitutionalism are upheld and respected. It is concerning that the security of the Judge is being withdrawn in the wake of the unfortunate incidence that occurred on 13 June 2024 at the Makadara Law Courts where a Judicial Officer lost her life in the line of duty.

The Defenders Coalition remains concerned about the whereabouts of Human Rights Defenders Bob Njagi, Jamil Longton and his brother Aslam Longton and this was the basis upon which the Law Society of Kenya went to court to seek the invitation of the Acting Inspector General of Police of Police to shed light on the enforced disappearance of the trio.

We call the relevant authorities, including the National Police Service without fail, to reinstate the security of the honourable Judge. At the same time, we call on the state to ensure the safety and the presentation of the trio to their family or before a court of law.

Signed

Defenders Coalition

In the vast northern Kenya, where the sun scorches the earth and drought is an ever-present threat, the communities of Marsabit and Isiolo have long struggled to survive. In the arid and semi-arid regions, pastoralism is not just a way of life but a means of survival. Yet, the challenges these communities face go far beyond the land’s harshness. Poverty, limited access to basic services, and environmental degradation are constant companions. And as the climate changes, these challenges only grow more severe.

Participants during the Mama Mazingira Dialogue engaging in a session.

Against this backdrop, the Women Human Rights Defenders of Marsabit and Isiolo emerged as powerful voices in their communities. These women are more than just activists; they are the protectors of their people, advocating for the rights of women and marginalized groups. However, as the years went by, they began to see that the impacts of climate change threatened everything they had fought for. Extreme weather conditions have become more frequent and severe, weather patterns have shifted unpredictably, and the land they relied on has become increasingly barren.

These women knew that something had to be done. They understood that the fight for human rights was now also a fight against climate change. And so, they began seeking new ways to address these challenges, determined to protect their communities from the worsening impacts of a changing climate.

This is where the story of the Mama Mazingira Dialogue begins. Supported by a regional development partner- Hivos East Africa and implemented by the Defenders Coalition, the Mama Mazingira Dialogues were born out of a simple yet powerful idea: to bring together WHRDs, community members, and duty bearers from Marsabit and Isiolo counties for a series of action-oriented community-led conversations. They sought to bridge the gap between state and non-state actors, ensuring that the voices of WHRDs were heard in the halls of power where climate policies were being shaped.

On 13th August, the Defenders Coalition embarked on a journey to Isiolo and Marsabit Counties, where they facilitated critical conversations on 14th August and 16th August, respectively. During these discussions, Women Human Rights Defenders expressed concerns over a range of pressing issues, including the gendered impact of climate change, concerns about climate financing through carbon credits, land grabbing, cultural heritage, climate justice, and conflicts.

Among these courageous women was Sarah, a passionate WHRD from Isiolo. Sarah had always been a fierce advocate for her community, but her perspective on the climate crisis deepened after a life-changing experience. Through the support of the Defenders Coalition, Sarah was privileged to attend a Summer School Climate Justice Class. It was there that she learned a profound and unsettling truth: many of those who are most affected by climate change are women.

This realization struck a chord with Sarah. She had seen firsthand how droughts and environmental degradation disproportionately impacted women in her community. Women were often the ones walking longer distances to find water, struggling to feed their families when crops failed, and bearing the brunt of the health impacts of a changing climate. At the Summer School, Sarah connected with other women who were facing similar challenges. She learned about strategies for climate resilience, the importance of integrating gender perspectives into climate policies, and the power of collective action. When Sarah returned to Isiolo, she brought back not just knowledge but a renewed sense of purpose. 

As the dialogue progressed, it was clear that the women had started to see themselves not just as victims of climate change but as leaders in the fight against it. They realized that their unique positions within their communities gave them the power to influence change. They began to engage more actively in climate discussions, bringing their lived experiences to the table and advocating for the needs of their communities. 

One of the most troubling aspects Sarah and other WHRDs began to address was the way climate change exposed young girls to heightened risks of gender-based violence and unplanned pregnancies. As water sources dwindled and grazing lands became scarce, families were forced to send their daughters farther from home in search of water and food for their cattle. These long and dangerous journeys often brought young girls into contact with men and boys who took advantage of their vulnerability, leading to instances of abuse. The harsh reality was that these girls, already burdened with the responsibility of finding sustenance for their families, were now facing the additional trauma of sexual exploitation, resulting in unplanned pregnancies that further jeopardized their futures.

The Mama Mazingira Dialogue provided a platform for WHRDs to bring these critical issues to the forefront. They highlighted the need for community-based solutions to protect young girls, such as creating safer routes for water collection, increasing awareness about the risks, and advocating for the establishment of support systems for victims of gender-based violence. The WHRDs were not only advocating for immediate action but also the integration of these concerns into broader climate adaptation and resilience strategies.

The impact of the Mama Mazingira Dialogue was profound. Not only did it lead to greater involvement of WHRDs in climate policy and action, but it also empowered these women to continue their advocacy work with renewed vigor. They had always been defenders of their communities, but now they were also recognized as key players in the fight against climate change.

In the end, the Mama Mazingira Dialogue was more than just a meeting; it was a testament to the power of women to drive change, even in the most challenging of circumstances. The WHRDs of Marsabit and Isiolo had taken on the mantle of leadership in the face of a crisis, proving that when women stand together, they can change the world.

Women Human Rights Defenders from Marsabit and Isiolo Counties with Defenders Coalition staff. 

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

 Meru, Kenya – August 15, 2024

 Today, after three years in the corridors of justice, Meru High Court Judge Hon. Justice Edward Muriithi has concluded the murder trial and found Mr. Patrick Naweet guilty of the gruesome murder of Isiolo-based woman human rights defender Elizabeth Ekaru. 

This is a significant moment for Elizabeth’s family, especially her children and ailing parents who looked up to the judiciary in Kenya for justice to be served. Isiolo human rights defenders, Amnesty International, and Defenders Coalition who observed the trial thanked the judiciary and law enforcement officers for their diligence in concluding a case that shocked the human rights defender family.

 Elizabeth Ekaru, a mother and fervent advocate for human rights and women’s empowerment, was brutally murdered on January 3, 2022. Her death not only marked a tragic loss for those who knew her but also highlighted the severe risks faced by women human rights defenders in their tireless work. 

The conviction of Patrick who was not remorseful over his heinous act assures Kenyans that we have a functioning legal system that can protect those aggrieved and seeking justice in Kenya, said Kamau Ngugi, Executive Director, Defenders Coalition. Ngugi added that the guilty verdict in Elizabeth Ekaru’s case is a landmark judgment that reinforces the importance of accountability and the rule of law.  

“This conviction sends a clear message that violence against women and human rights defenders is abhorrent and that perpetrators cannot hide behind culture; they will be held accountable for their actions.”Said Ngugi.

The killing of Elizabeth highlights the rise of the killing of women in Kenya. Among the victims of femicide are young women at the hands of male partners and frontline women human rights defenders. While the Elizabeth Ekaru case has been a success, there remain uninvestigated cases on the murder of women human rights defenders including that of Joannah Stutchbury, Esther Mwikali, Carol Mwatha among others who tragically lost their lives defending human rights.

Elizabeth Ekaru’s legacy continues to inspire human rights awareness and advocacy. Her work and the subsequent legal victory reaffirm the importance of defending human rights at all costs. The ruling provides a measure of closure for Elizabeth’s family and the human rights community, reaffirming their faith in the justice system. 

Isiolo Gender Watch Coordinator Ms. Grace Lolim welcomed the court’s verdict today as deserved justice for Elizabeth Ekaru and her loved ones. She described Elizabeth as a dedicated advocate and a beacon of hope for many in our community. “While this verdict cannot bring her back, it is a significant step in holding those responsible accountable for their actions,” she added.

Simon Lomoe Romana. son of the late Elizabeth said, “Today, we finally see justice for my mother. While no verdict can ever heal the pain of losing her, knowing that the person responsible will be held accountable brings some solace to our family. My mother was a remarkable woman who dedicated her life to helping others, and her absence has left a void that can never be filled. We miss her every day. We will continue to honor her memory and the values she stood for, hoping that her legacy inspires others to fight for justice and peace.”

As we reflect on this significant achievement, we remain steadfast in our commitment to advancing the cause of human rights and ensuring the protection of those who defend them.

“We hope this decision sends a strong message that violence, especially against those at the frontline advancing justice and equality, will not be tolerated. Our thoughts remain with Elizabeth’s family, and we continue to honor her legacy by advocating for the safety, security, and rights of all individuals. 

Notes to the Editors:

Elizabeth Ibrahim Ekaru was a staunch advocate for women’s rights, a champion of peace, and an environmental and land rights defender from Isiolo County, Kenya. Recognized for her courageous work, she received the Head of State Commendation Award for her primary role in defending human rights in Kenya. She was also a member of the National Network of Women Human Rights Defenders, convened by the Defenders Coalition of Kenya.

About the Defenders Coalition

The Defenders Coalition is a national organization that works primarily for the protection of Human Rights Defenders (HRDs) in Kenya. Formed in 2007, and registered as a Trust, Defenders Coalition strengthens the capacities of HRDs to work safely and more effectively, besides advocating for favorable, legal, policy, and institutional environments to reduce their risks of persecution and/or harm.

Read the Full judgement here

We Young Indigenous women are the custodians of our lands, waters, and cultures. Our deep connection to the land and our traditional knowledge provides us with unique perspectives and solutions to the climate crisis. We are resilient, innovative, and determined to protect our homelands for future generations. Yet, we face unprecedented challenges due to climate change, and our rights to land and natural resources are under constant threat. Despite these challenges, we are a force to be reckoned with. The statistics of number of indigenous people losing their lives to brutal acts by government and corporations aiming to exploit resources from their lands and territories.

It is time for our voices to be heard, our spaces at negotiation table recognized and full inclusion on discussions about us accorded. We call for policies that respect our rights, recognize our contributions, and empower us to lead in climate action, sustainable development and leadership.

Indigenous youths recognize their critical role and call for immediate actions by relevant stakeholders on their inclusion and active participation in:

• Ownership, management of community land
• Leadership
• Natural resource governance
• Climate change mitigation
• Climate Justice

CALL-TO-ACTION

Full and Effective Participation:

• Demand for equal representation and decision-making power in all climate change negotiations, land, and natural resource governance processes at local, national, and international levels. We demand full inclusion in county climate change committee and in decision pertaining to county climate change fund.
• Call for full inclusion in dedicated spaces and platforms for young Indigenous women to share their experiences, knowledge, and perspectives this include inclusion in decision making pertaining to climate change at national level in the National climate change steering committee

Recognition and Protection of Indigenous Rights:

• Demand for unconditional recognition and upholding of Indigenous Peoples’ rights, including land tenure, self-determination, and cultural integrity as stated in the Constitution of Kenya 2010 Article 56 (That upholds the rights of minorities and marginalized communities and obligates the state to put in place affirmative action Programmes designed to ensure that marginalized communities participate and are represented in governance)
• Call for the implementation of Free, Prior and Informed Consent (FPIC) in all decisions affecting Indigenous lands and resources.

Climate Justice and Reparations:

• Demand for climate justice, acknowledging the historical and ongoing contributions of Indigenous Peoples to climate change mitigation and adaptation while disproportionately bearing the brunt of its impacts.
• Call for financial reparations and support for loss and damage caused by climate change in Indigenous territories. Full inclusion in conversations pertaining to carbon credit.

Access to Resources and Technology:

• Demand for equitable access to climate finance, technology, and capacity building for Indigenous women-led initiatives. Demand for full access to network coverage in marginalized areas occupied by indigenous communities.
• Call for capacity building and support in developing and implementing climate adaptation and mitigation strategies based on Indigenous knowledge and practices.

Land Rights and Tenure Security:

• Demand for secure land tenure rights for Indigenous women, including collective and individual ownership.
• Call for protection of Indigenous lands and territories from land grabbing, extractive industries, and other threats.

Sustainable Livelihoods and Food Security:

• Demand for support in developing sustainable livelihoods that respect Indigenous cultures and knowledge.
• Call for investment in Agroecological and climate-resilient agriculture to ensure food security for Indigenous communities.

Education and Capacity Building:

• Demand for culturally appropriate education and training programs for Indigenous women and youth.
• Call for support in developing leadership and advocacy skills to empower
• Indigenous women to participate effectively in decision-making processes.

Recommendations

Integrate Indigenous Knowledge: Incorporate Indigenous knowledge, practices, and worldviews into climate policies, land management, and natural resource governance.

Gender-Responsive Climate Action: Design and implement climate actions with a gender lens, addressing the specific needs and vulnerabilities of Indigenous women.

Youth-Led Initiatives: Support and invest in youth-led initiatives that address climate change, land, and natural resource challenges.

Monitoring and Evaluation: Develop effective monitoring and evaluation frameworks to track progress on gender equality and Indigenous Peoples’ rights within climate and environmental policies.

Partnerships and Collaboration: Foster strong partnerships between Indigenous Peoples, governments, civil society, and the private sector to achieve shared goals.

Data Collection and Analysis: Invest in research and data collection on the impacts of climate change and resource management on Indigenous women.

Policy Coherence: Ensure that climate, land, and natural resource policies are aligned and mutually reinforcing.

In our latest Haki Series story, we introduce Mueni, a passionate feminist and dedicated volunteer at a community-based union. Mueni’s activism is driven by her unwavering commitment to justice and equality. Despite facing multiple arrests, including a notable instance on 11 May 2022 during protests against the high cost of living, she remains unshaken in her fight for a better future. Mueni’s story is a powerful reminder of the resilience and courage it takes to stand up for what is right, even in the face of adversity.

The Story of Mueni