As we bid farewell to our 2021-2023 strategic plan, we are filled with gratitude and pride for the remarkable journey we have shared. Our #AmnestyKwaGround strategy has been a powerful force for human rights, promoting civic freedoms, equality and non-discrimination for all. We have expanded our reach and impact across the country, establishing 109 circles of conscience in 21 counties, growing our movement to over 79,000 supporters and 3,800 members, and reaching over 330 million people globally with our message. We have also rescued hundreds of people from injustice and oppression. These have been an incredible three years. Let us celebrate some of the highlights from this transformative period.
2021 – 2022 Highlights
In 2021, we celebrated Amnesty International’s 60th anniversary by challenging ourselves through online events that sparked renewed activism. Collaborating with Amnesty Germany, South Africa, and Nigeria, we hosted impactful dialogues on gender-based violence and non-violent organising. Fast forward to 2022, our 10th year as a registered NGO in Kenya was marked by legal empowerment clinics and a vibrant Freedom Festival honoring human rights achievements. In response to the challenges faced by Kenyans, particularly those in Kibos and Mukuru Kwa Njenga, we swiftly condemned forced evictions, secured legal victories, and stood in solidarity, offering aid and representation.
Our commitment to justice continued with the Missing Voices Alliance, documenting cases of enforced disappearances and police killings. While we noted a decrease in incidents, the grim reality of 408 police killings and 78 abductions in three years persisted. However, the surge in arrests of implicated police, especially the high-profile case of Sergeant Ahmed Rashid, brings hope for accountability. Recognising the need for ethical leadership, our #ChambuaUongozi campaign engaged over 3,000 residents in key counties, influencing debates and empowering citizens to set human rights-centered priorities. Notably, 12 campaign-engaged MCA aspirants secured office, and our publications, “Missed Opportunities” and “Afya Nation,” contributed to shaping the Kenya Kwanza Administration Manifesto. Excitingly, we became an independent National Section after rigorous reviews of our governance.
2023 Highlights
The year started on a sombre note with the tragic murder of LGBTIQ activist Edwin Chilloba and the distressing torture of Baby Sagini. We strongly condemn these acts. A significant triumph came with the Supreme Court affirming the right to association for everyone, including the LGBTIQ community. The long-awaited justice was served as police officers and an informant implicated in the six-year-old Mavoko three murders were sentenced, marking a crucial step towards police accountability. Our commitment to seeking justice for extrajudicial killings victims like Evans Njoroge, Carilton Maina and the Kianjokoma brothers remains unwavering.
Amidst these challenges, a pivotal moment unfolded in the digital space, reminiscent of the internet’s revolutionary dawn in 1983. We maintained vigilance, tracking a concerning online organ trafficking scenario with Open Institute. Despite complexities, triumphs emerged with the graduation of our Digital Disruptors and the Privacy First moot court competition. These initiatives focused on advocating for safer online spaces for the youth and seeking remedies to safeguard digital rights. As we continue navigating complexities, our steadfast commitment remains anchored in justice, equality, and the protection of human rights.
Looking Ahead
As we embark on the promising journey of 2024 armed with a new strategic plan, our commitment to positive change remains unwavering. Our vision is clear—to foster non-violent leadership through innovative, community-led initiatives that create a ripple effect of real change. We aspire to empower local leaders capable of shaping conversations on all fronts, both online and offline. In the upcoming year, we pledge to support emerging voices and address stigma, discrimination, and violence to pave the way for a more just and equitable society.
As we bid farewell to this transformative year, we extend warm season greetings and a Happy New Year to all our supporters, members, and partners. Your continued dedication fuels our movement’s momentum. We invite you to renew your membership and encourage your families and friends to join us on this collective journey toward a brighter future. Before the year concludes, we encourage you to visit our Take Action online page and participate in one or more final actions with us—let’s make a lasting impact together. Thank you for being an integral part of our human rights movement.
Warm Wishes,
Amnesty Kenya