Hanifa Safia is a fearless young woman who has emerged as a powerful voice against injustice. Through social media, she has rallied young people to rise up against poor governance, corruption, and the misuse of public funds. Her pivotal role in the Finance Bill 2024 protests has made her a prominent figure in the fight for change.

Hanifa’s passion for human rights, though, began in her childhood. Even as a young girl, she often stood up for her peers, in and out of classroom, in instances where they couldn’t. She later witnessed firsthand injustices faced by women and marginalized communities which ignited her determination to fight for a more equitable society.

Hanifa has dedicated her life to advocating for the marginalized and vulnerable, particularly those living in low-income communities. She has led numerous campaigns, including bringing an end the draining of a raw sewer in Korogocho slums, which had been going on for over 30 years. Through a three-month social media campaign on X (formerly Twitter), she successfully pressured authorities to rectify the issue – which among other factors, posed health risks to nearby residents, especially children. Hanifa was also instrumental in reclaiming land grabbed from a children’s home in Ridgeway Area.

Besides, Hanifa has organized successful fundraising campaigns to support victims with most notable ones being raising funds to cater for hospital bills for victims and families (all over Kenya) affected during the Finance Bill demonstrations. Additionally, earlier in the year, she led a drive to raise money for families affected by floods.

Hanifa’s unwavering belief in the power of individual action has led to significant positive change. Her story is a testament to the impact that one person can make when they are committed to making a difference.

However, as with many human rights defenders, it has not been a rosy journey.  She often tries to navigate the complexities of public opinion, balancing constructive criticism with unwarranted negativity. While some may view her as a hero, others may dismiss her as intrusive or overly involved. Yet, Hanifa’s unwavering commitment to justice and her understanding of the issues at hand have kept her motivated. By building trust and fostering a supportive community, she has created a space where people can connect and address injustice together. This spirit echoes that of historical figures like Wangu wa Makeri and Mekatili wa Menza, who refused to be silenced in their pursuit of a better society.

Hanifa believes that one of the most pressing human rights issues facing the country is the mistreatment of women and girls. She is particularly concerned about the lack of justice for victims of rape and sexual abuse. To illustrate this point, Hanifa shared a case where she assisted a mother whose 10-year-old daughter was raped by a Quran teacher in Mandera. While the case is ongoing, the perpetrator remains free and continues to harass the victim’s mother.

Hanifa is a symbol of hope for young people. Her unwavering dedication to human rights inspires others to stand up against injustice and strive for a better future.