Justice Watchers

by Defenders Coalition

Season 4

How One Decision Redirected Francis Auma’s Life Toward Community Protection and Human Rights

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.

S4 · E3

Aug 15, 2026

2:07

Season 3

Season 2

Anami Toure 'Solidarity is important amongst human rights defenders'

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.

S2 · E6

Feb 19, 2026

35:46

Marvlyn Mbugua 'Human rights defenders should make Mental Health a priority at a personal level

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.

S2 · E5

Feb 19, 2026

47:34

Willie Oeba 'I was almost shot beacuse of mistaken Identity'

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.

S2 · E4

Feb 19, 2026

31:04

Phelister Abdalla 'Selling tomatoes is work but sex works pays better ;it's a better choice for me.'

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

S2 · E3

Feb 19, 2026

33:01

Sankara Nyagaya 'Ensure that the community are empowered to the point of speaking for themselves'

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.

S2 · E2

Feb 19, 2026

43:18

We've had community organization for a long time the one mark that we keep missing is political organization

In our first episode, join us as we talk with Njoki Gachanja, the coordinator of Githurai Social Justice Centre, a true champion for human rights in Kenya. From tackling police brutality to empowering marginalized communities, she shares what inspired his path and how his work fuels Kenya’s human rights movement. Hear about her approach to justice, grassroots movements' unique challenges, and her vision for a more just Kenya.

S2 · E1

Feb 19, 2026

35:50

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Justice Watchers

How One Decision Redirected Francis Auma’s Life Toward Community Protection and Human Rights

Championing Sexual Minority Rights

Education for Human Rights

Balancing the Fight: Njeri Mwangi on Activism, Mental Health, and Life

Anami Toure 'Solidarity is important amongst human rights defenders'

Marvlyn Mbugua 'Human rights defenders should make Mental Health a priority at a personal level

Willie Oeba 'I was almost shot beacuse of mistaken Identity'

Phelister Abdalla 'Selling tomatoes is work but sex works pays better ;it's a better choice for me.'

Sankara Nyagaya 'Ensure that the community are empowered to the point of speaking for themselves'

We've had community organization for a long time the one mark that we keep missing is political organization