To build the capacity of human rights defenders (HRDs) in the East and Horn of Africa sub-region is a vital part of DefendDefenders work. We aim to equip individual HRDs, EHAHRD-Net, and National HRD Coalitions in the sub-region on the following topics:

• HRD protection mechanisms and security management;
• Advocacy tools and strategies for HRDs;
• Coalition building; and
• Networking.

In order to achieve this goal, DefendDefenders organises trainings, conferences, and workshops, as well as action-based learning and mentoring to HRDs. Capacity Building program works in close collaboration with Advocacy, Research, and Communication program, Protection and Security Management program, as well as Resource Centre, which also facilitates for capacity building of HRDs.