Kuva maalatusta seinämuraalista Keniassa. Muraalissa nainen huutaa megafoniin ja taustalla on sanoja englanniksi, kuten monimuotoisuus ja luottamus.

Kenya

Kenya is one of the largest democracies in East Africa, where a strong civil society has played a central role in promoting human rights. In recent years, however, the country’s political situation has tightened, and the state of civil liberties has deteriorated. Strengthening human rights and the rule of law requires long-term efforts, especially for groups in vulnerable positions.

KIOS in Kenya

KIOS supports civil society organisations in Kenya that promote the rights of women and girls, of sexual and gender minorities, and the right to a clean and healthy environment. In addition, KIOS grantees aim to strengthen the space for civil society and the realisation of the rule of law. This support is part of a broader multi-year programme by KIOS to reinforce human rights and civil society in Kenya. KIOS also implements the EU-funded Haki Ni Yetu project in Kenya together with two local human rights organisations.

KIOS grantees in Kenya:

  • Operate in local communities across the country, including Nairobi, Kisumu, Kilifi, and Mombasa.
  • Raise awareness among citizens about their rights.
  • Strengthen communities’ ability to advocate for the realisation of their rights.
  • Seek to influence national legislation and political decision-makers to advance human rights.
  • Provide legal advice, organise trainings, document human rights violations, and support victims of violence.

Impacts of the human rights work:

  • Human rights defenders’ ability to operate has been strengthened under difficult conditions.
  • Organisations have called for international pressure on the Kenyan government to protect civil liberties.
  • Local community affected by emissions from a metal smelter received compensation.
  • Rural communities have been included in governance and decision-making.
  • People belonging to sexual and gender minorities are increasingly active in public and political advocacy and in civil society.

Donate to support human rights work and human rights defenders in Kenya!

See our funding page for open calls.

Page updated in June 2026.

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