DefendersTech

We provide digital security and IT-support to human rights defenders in the East and Horn of Africa sub-region.

DefendersTech is DefendDefenders innovation team working to facilitate intelligent, strategic, and secure usage of technology by human rights defenders (HRDs) in the East and Horn of Africa sub-region.

IT Services

Digital Security Education

We host year round digital security workshops for HRDs. These sessions are a vital introduction to online security that every HRD needs to protect their sensitive work. The workshops last three days and cover topics such as internet basics, device security, backing up data, online security, and encryption of devices and communications.

Organizational Assessments

We conduct audits of HRDs' and organisations' digital security capacities based on the SAFETAG framework for advocacy groups.

Training of Trainers

Training of Auditors

IT Helpline

SAFE SISTERS

DefendDefenders’ digital security program for women HRDs enabling them to respond to the digital security challenges they face in their work and daily life.

TTAALA

DefendDefenders’ comprehensive skills-building project for HRDs and human rights organisations aiming to illuminate the world of digital tools and strategies. Ttaala places emphasis on the proper documentation, collection, and security of digital data. 

Are you an HRD in the East and Horn of Africa in need of digital security support?
Contact DefendersTech

Latest News

Call for Expression of Interest – human rights defenders mentorship program

After 20 years of DefendDefenders, this is a moment not only for reflection but for action. As we honour two decades of resilience, solidarity, and advocacy, we look ahead with purpose: What can human rights defenders across generations learn from one another? To celebrate our 20th anniversary, DefendDefenders and AfricanDefenders are proud to launch The Roots of Resistance, a Mentorship Program for Young African Human Rights Defenders. This special initiative is designed to empower and connect emerging human rights defenders (HRDs) aged 18–30 through intergenerational mentorship, skills-building, and movement solidarity.

25 July 2025 No Comments

Updates from June 2025

Hello Friends, In June, the African continent saw a surge in human rights violations, highlighting the growing risks faced by those speaking truth to power. In Kenya, peaceful protests were met with deadly force, mass arrests, and media blackouts. In Ethiopia, journalist Tesfalem Waldyes remained in detention despite a court order for his release, amid official attacks on media independence.

25 July 2025 No Comments

Annual Report 2024

The year 2024 witnessed a deteriorating political and human rights climate, with the war in Sudan, police violence in Kenya, ethnic conflict in Ethiopia and political instability in the Sahel intensifying threats against human rights defenders (HRDs).

22 July 2025 No Comments
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CONTACT US

Address:
Arie Towers
Plot 16, Mackinnon Road
Nakasero P.O. Box 70356,
Kampala, Uganda

General Phone Line:
+256-200-760-700 (General)

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