HKSAI Joins 136 Advocates at the 7th Annual NiMama Forum to Champion Women’s Rights
NAIROBI, KENYA — HKSAI has participated in the official launch of the 7th Annual Women Human Rights Defenders Forum, popularly known as the NiMama Forum. Convened by the Defenders Coalition, the two-day event brought together 136 women human rights advocates from across Kenya under the powerful theme #GiveToGain.
HKSAI was represented at the forum by Brenda Robi, Project Manager, who joined fellow advocates in advancing conversations around the protection and promotion of women’s rights. The forum serves as an important platform for reflection, dialogue, and solidarity among women who are at the forefront of defending human rights in Kenya.
As Organization we are dedicated to empowering adolescents and women in informal settlements, the forum provided a critical space to engage in deep conversations regarding the progress and persistent challenges in advancing the rights of women and girls.
Addressing a Constrained Civic Space
During the opening ceremony, Kamau Ngugi, Executive Director of the Defenders Coalition, reviewed the increasingly hostile environment for human rights work in Kenya.
“We are meeting at a time when the civic space is increasingly constrained and, in many ways, hostile,” he noted. “Across the country, we continue to witness growing restrictions on fundamental freedoms, alongside targeted attacks on those who dare to speak out. Women human rights defenders, in particular, are disproportionately affected.”
This sentiment was echoed by Gloria Madegwa, Head of Programs and Strategic Partnerships at the Defenders Coalition, who noted that many defenders are navigating serious risks, including technology-facilitated Gender-Based Violence (GBV), surveillance, and economic vulnerability.
“We are convening at a time when the operating environment for Women Human Rights Defenders continues to grow more complex and, in many cases, more hostile. Many WHRDs are navigating serious risks, including technology-facilitated Gender-Based Violence, surveillance, criminalization, and economic vulnerability. Despite these challenges, they continue to stand firm, to speak out, and to hold systems accountable,” she said.
#GiveToGain: A Call for Collective Action
The theme #GiveToGain underscores the importance of collective effort and mutual investment. It emphasizes that meaningful progress in human rights is achieved when individuals and institutions support each other’s growth, safety, and empowerment.
The forum's focus on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), the safety of defenders, and shrinking civic space aligns closely with our mission to protect and empower vulnerable adolescents in Nairobi's slums and beyond. The discussions held during the panel sessions and workshops are expected to shape future advocacy strategies and influence policy directions that safeguard the rights of women and girls across the country.
Strengthening Resilience and Reform
From grassroots activists to seasoned advocates, the NiMama Forum created a unique space for sharing stories of resilience and resistance. The actionable resolutions generated during the forum will strengthen ongoing efforts to hold systems accountable and build a more just and inclusive society.HKSAI remains committed to these ideals, ensuring that the voices of adolescent girls and women from informal settlements are heard and protected in the face of evolving challenges.
📢 Call to Action
HKSAI invites partners, supporters, and online followers to learn more about its impactful programs, support its initiatives, and stay engaged by visiting:
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