Justice Watchers

In this episode, we have a conversation with Francis Auma (also known as Gambasugu), a human rights defender and community organiser from Makupa, Mombasa County. Francis works with Muslims for Human Rights (@MUHURI). Francis is full of raw energy that lights up every room he steps into. He has a track record of taking the lead when it comes to petitioning state agencies and agitating for social justice. He is a face synonymous with the agitation of civil and political rights in the coastal region. His story highlights how lived experiences inspire advocacy, civic education, and the commitment to protect rights and freedoms for all.

Welcome to the the 3rd episode,Season 2 of the Justice Watchers Podcast. In this episode, we feature Masafu Okwara, a human rights advocate at the National Gay and Lesbian Human Rights Commission (NGLHRC).

Masafu takes us through her work championing the rights of the sexual minorities. .Okwara's personal experiences and commitment highlight the resilience it takes to fight for human rights in challenging environments, showcasing advocacy that secures justice and drives landmark legal reforms.

Dr. Njoki Wamai showcases her journey into human rights workand the education sector as a potent catalyst for change. As an Assistant Professor of International Relations specializing in transitional justice and human rights, she exemplifies how academia can move beyond classrooms to address social ills. Dr. Wamai articulates how education fosters critical thinking and equips individuals to combat issues like gender-based violence and historical injustices, ultimately translating academic insights into tangible societal transformation.

In this premiere, we feature Njeri Mwangi, a Woman Human Rights Defender, journalist, and the Executive Director of PAWA 254. Njeri takes us through her human rights journey and shares what it truly means to balance her public presence with personal life and mental health. Known for her bold voice and commitment to women’s and youth empowerment, she offers honest reflections on leadership, courage, and purpose. 🎧 Tune in and be inspired by her story. #NiMamaVoices

Today, we highlight the personal story of human rights defender Julius Kamau across Kenya, discussing his challenges, victories, and impact of his work on the community.

Today, we delve into the power of community mobilization—what it looks like on the ground and how it impacts the daily lives of ordinary people. Our guest is Anami "Toure" Daudi, a community organizer, human rights defender, and Co-Founder of Mukuru Community Justice Centre. Toure has been a driving force behind grassroots activism. Today, we’ll explore his journey, his impact, and the state of human rights through the lens of those on the frontlines of community struggles.

In today’s episode, Marvlyn Mbugua, a Mental Health Professional and advocate for the well-being of human rights defenders delves into the importance of prioritizing our mental health especially for Human rights defenders who work in a challenging environment marked by threats, harassment and surveillance. Many face intimidation, arbitrary arrests, and digital attacks, often for speaking out against injustices. The constant pressure, fear for personal safety, and risk of burnout make psychosocial support essential to help HRDs maintain their mental wellbeing and continue their vital work. She discusses these challenges, explores resilience strategies, and shares self-care tips that can make a significant difference.

Today’s episode explores a powerful and often underappreciated tool in human rights advocacy: art and culture. Throughout history, art in its many forms—music, literature, visual art, and performance—has been a beacon of truth, a call to action, and a platform for voices that often go unheard. But how does art intersect with human rights, and how can creative expression challenge systems of oppression? Joining us in this episode is ‪Willie Oeba‬ a renowned spoken word artist and a dedicated human rights defender who uses his art to advocate for justice and social change. ‪Willie Oeba‬ is a spoken word artist whose work has captivated audiences across Kenya and beyond. Through his thought-provoking performances, Willie shines a light on issues of inequality, human rights, and the struggles of marginalized communities. His voice is not just that of an artist, but of a defender, speaking truth to power. Willie, it’s an honor to have you here.

In this episode of Justice Watchers, we speak with Phelister Abdalla, National Coordinator of Kenya Sex Workers Alliance and the End Femicide Movement about the challenges sex workers face, the fight for their rights, their dignity and feminist movement organizing

In this powerful episode of Justice Watchers, we sit down with Sankara Nyagaya, an Environmental Human Rights Defender (HRD), to discuss the urgent need for inclusive climate action in Kenya. We explore how the Voices for Climate Action initiative is amplifying the voices of indigenous communities in Northern Kenya, particularly through the work of Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs). These frontline defenders are advocating for land rights, sustainable solutions, and policies that protect their communities from the devastating impacts of climate change.