Kenya

Kenya’s civic space remains relatively open in the subregion; however, it continues to grapple with corruption, and human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and torture. Security forces routinely violate the right to freedom of assembly by using excessive force to suppress protests, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries, arbitrary arrests, and detentions. 

Human rights situation in Kenya

Kenya’s civic space remains relatively open in the subregion; however, it continues to grapple with corruption, and human rights violations, including extrajudicial killings and torture. Security forces routinely violate the right to freedom of assembly by using excessive force to suppress protests, resulting in numerous deaths and injuries, arbitrary arrests, and detentions. Additionally, freedom of expression continues to be stifled as journalists investigating corruption and governance issues face threats and arbitrary arrests. GBV and femicide rates surged, with over 8 cases documented in 2024 alone. HRDs operating in conflict-ridden regions like Baringo, Samburu, Elgeyo Marakwet, West Pokot, and Turkana increasingly became targets of rival communities.

The information is based on our latest bi-annual report that can be found under our reports.

Relevant News

African Human Rights System & African Commission on Human and Peoples' Rights

ACHPR65: Human Rights Situation in Africa (April – October 2019)

In its bi-annual report to the African Commission on Human and Peoples’ Rights (ACHPR), DefendDefenders (the East and Horn of Africa Human Rights Defenders Project)