🔴 Gun Violence, Police Brutality, and Extrajudicial Killings: A Crisis of Justice in Kenya
May 8, 2025
On May 20, 2025, I had the privilege of being a guest on The CEO Show, where I shared powerful, real-life stories from our work at the Center for Legal Support and Inmate Rehabilitation (CELSIR Africa). These stories amplify the often-unheard voices driving Kenya’s justice transformation. In my X post following the episode, I emphasize the importance of centering these voices in the movement for change—inviting viewers to watch the full episode and dive deeper into these insights (watch it here).
My appearance on the show, together with CELSIR Africa’s broader mission, shines a light on critical social issues in Kenya: the urgent need for restorative justice, confronting police violence, advocating for second chances for inmates, and expanding equitable access to legal aid. As of today, May 22, 2025, just days after the interview, momentum is building—and now is the time for all of us to explore these issues and work together toward a more humane justice system in Kenya.
The Power of Restorative Justice in Kenya
One of the core pillars of CELSIR Africa’s mission is promoting restorative justice—a tradition deeply rooted in Kenya’s pre-colonial communities but often overlooked in modern legal systems. Back then, community leaders resolved conflicts by focusing on healing and reconciliation rather than punishment. Yet, as Justice N.R.O Ombija points out in Kenya Law, customary law lacks solid footing in our written legal framework, leaving many marginalized voices unheard.
At CELSIR Africa, we are bridging this gap. On The CEO Show, I shared how restorative justice helps reduce repeat offenses and rebuild communities by prioritizing healing and rehabilitation. We believe every inmate is a human being with potential, deserving of a second chance.
How You Can Help:
- Advocate for legal reforms that enshrine restorative justice in Kenya’s Constitution.
- Partner with CELSIR Africa or local groups to run community workshops teaching conflict resolution and mediation skills—especially in informal settlements.
- Donate items like toys, books, blankets, and hygiene kits to support rehabilitation programs inside prisons.
- Share stories of transformation on social media using #RestorativeJustice to raise awareness and inspire others.
Confronting Police Violence and Systemic Inequality
Police violence remains a harsh reality for many, especially in marginalized communities. A recent Amnesty International report revealed 60 deaths linked to police actions during protests over the Finance Bill last year. In Nairobi’s Mathare slum, where over half a million people live in close quarters, residents face not only police brutality but also dire shortages of water, sanitation, and basic services, as reported by the Office of the High Commissioner for Human Rights (OHCHR).
Since 2015, Social Justice Centres across Kenya have created safe spaces for communities to document abuses and demand accountability. These centers—supported by UN Human Rights—now number 26 across major towns, giving voice to those often ignored.
How You Can Help:
- Support Social Justice Centres through donations or volunteering to help document rights violations.
- Encourage your community to report abuses safely to organizations like the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
- Push for police reforms, including mandatory human rights training and community policing programs.
- Donate essential supplies like water filters, solar lights, and first aid kits to communities facing systemic neglect.
Giving Inmates a Second Chance
During The CEO Show, I emphasized the urgent need to humanize inmates by offering opportunities for rehabilitation and reintegration. At CELSIR Africa, our mission to “lead the shift from incarceration to community” challenges the stigma and barriers former inmates face—barriers that drive many back to prison.
Through legal support, counseling, and skills training, we work to build a Kenya where justice has a human face and everyone gets a fair shot at rebuilding their lives.
How You Can Help:
- Fund vocational training, counseling, and education programs for former inmates.
- Donate clothes, toiletries, books, and learning materials to prison rehabilitation centers.
- Support businesses willing to hire former inmates and advocate for tax incentives that encourage inclusive hiring.
- Share success stories on social media to reduce stigma and inspire community support.
Expanding Access to Legal Aid
Justice is out of reach for too many Kenyans, especially those living in informal settlements. The Legal Aid Act of 2016 promised access to legal help, but chronic underfunding of institutions like the National Legal Aid Service and Judiciary keeps this promise unfulfilled. Corruption and poor governance make the journey even harder.
CELSIR Africa tackles these challenges through strategic litigation and partnerships, inviting all to join us in reimagining justice.
How You Can Help:
- Volunteer or offer pro bono legal services to support marginalized clients.
- Donate smartphones, tablets, or data bundles to help people connect with mobile legal aid platforms.
- Help develop community legal education programs—whether by hosting talks or sharing informative materials.
- Monitor court cases and report corruption to strengthen transparency.
Standing with Human Rights Defenders
Brave human rights defenders in Kenya risk much to fight injustice. The 2024 Amnesty report records 72 forced disappearances and the tragic death of 12-year-old Kennedy Onyango from police gunfire during protests. Young activists, especially from Gen-Z, are leading this call for accountability and change.
How You Can Help:
- Support legal defense funds and safe houses for activists under threat.
- Create or support online platforms and events where young activists can share their stories widely.
- Donate phones, internet access, or funds to grassroots organizations defending human rights.
- Partner with international groups like Amnesty International to pressure authorities to respect human rights.
Why This Matters Now
Kenya’s justice system stands at a crossroads. The momentum for reform is stronger than ever. Together, we can push for a justice system that is humane, inclusive, and fair.
Join CELSIR Africa (@CELSIR_Africa) on social media, share our stories, and explore ways to get involved. Every voice counts in building a Kenya where justice truly has a human face.
Article By
Anne Munyua
Founder and Executive Director
CELSIR
