The power of music and poetry lies in their ability to connect deeply with human emotions, making the message of liberation personal and profound. In modern times, music and poetry continue to challenge oppressive systems and inspire social change. Whether addressing issues of corruption, impunity, failed systems, extrajudicial killings, gender inequality, police brutality, or the struggle for land and environmental rights, these forms of expression offer a space where suppressed voices can rise.

Defenders Coalition recognizes music, art and poetry as powerful instruments of liberation that empower by giving them a platform to narrate their own stories, reclaim their dignity, and challenge the status quo.

For five years in a row, the Defenders Coalition has organized the Annual Mashujaa Festival, a one-day music extravaganza to celebrate the pro-human rights, democracy and social justice heroes who fought for the first and second liberation of Kenya.

The Mashujaa Festival has served as a platform for strengthening linkages between veteran human rights defenders and youthful human rights defenders (HRDs) at the forefront in promoting social accountability, social justice, and human rights. Furthermore, the platform has enabled human rights defenders to debrief following difficult to extreme human rights work burdens that impact on the physical and mental wellbeing of HRDs.