Haki Africa marks 10 years of fighting for social justice
The rights organization has evolved from a regional watchdog in Mombasa into a national powerhouse in the fight against extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, and the abuse of power.
Haki Africa celebrated its 10-year anniversary, marking a decade of advancing human rights, accountability, and social justice in Kenya and beyond.
Founded in 2016, the rights organization has evolved from a regional watchdog in Mombasa into a national powerhouse in the fight against extrajudicial killings, forced disappearances, and the abuse of power.
Reflecting on the challenges of the past decade, Haki Africa Executive Director Yusuf Abubakar highlighted the organization’s collaboration with the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and other stakeholders in addressing issues such as terrorism, radicalization, and the use of excessive force by law enforcement agencies.
He noted that engagement with the ODPP has fostered a human rights–based approach, including the adoption of softer charging strategies that emphasize rehabilitation over retribution. This model is now being studied by other nations in the Horn of Africa as a blueprint for managing internal security without sacrificing the fundamental rights of citizens.
Speaking on behalf of the Director of Public Prosecutions, Renson Ingonga, the Secretary for Public Prosecutions, Alloys Kemo, praised Haki Africa for its consistent role in promoting human rights and encouraged the organization to remain bold and steadfast in championing the rights of all citizens.
“You have been our cheerleaders for the good work we have done, and you have also challenged us where we fall short of your expectations. We may not be perfect, but these continuous engagements are what guide us toward achieving a better society,” said Kemo.
He emphasized that the ODPP is anchored in the belief that justice and development are inseparable, noting that public trust in the rule of law—where the law applies equally to all, regardless of status—is fundamental to a democratic society.
Mombasa governor Abdulswamad Sharrif, Alloys Kemo secretary Public Prosecutions and Muhuri director Khelef Khalifa during the Haki Africa 10th anniversary event
The centerpiece of the conference was the launch of the Haki Africa Strategic Plan 2025–2028. This roadmap focuses on three “pillars of impact” that will define the next four years of human rights work in East Africa: digital rights and cybersecurity, climate justice for marginalized communities, and the strengthening of community–police relations.
Over the last decade, Haki Africa has assisted in filing over 2,500 legal petitions for victims of rights violations. In addition, the adoption of non-confrontational mediation with security agencies has led to a 15% decrease in reported cases of police harassment in Mombasa’s Old Town.
The event was graced by Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Sheriff Nassir and Mombasa Senator Mohammed Faki, who spoke on the state of human rights and the future of civic space in Kenya.