In West Kolunje, limited awareness around human rights has contributed to increasing cases of rights violations, affecting community members’ well-being and security. To bridge this gap, ADS Nyanza, through its People Empowerment and Sustainability Project (PESP), recently organized a dedicated advocacy training aimed at building a comprehensive understanding of human rights among local committee members and empowering the community to actively protect their rights.

The advocacy committee participated in an intensive three-day training facilitated by ADS Nyanza, which focused on essential human rights principles, classifications, and legal frameworks. Participants explored various aspects of human rights, from defining their characteristics and classifications to understanding local and international frameworks that uphold these rights. By the end of the training, committee members were better prepared to identify and respond to rights violations within the community and were equipped with strategies for guiding individuals on accessing justice and redress.

Engaging in group discussions and hands-on activities, participants worked together to analyze Chapter 4 of the Kenyan Constitution—Kenya’s Bill of Rights. This exercise not only deepened their understanding of the rights enshrined in the constitution but also made it easier to relate these legal principles to everyday experiences in West Kolunje. By breaking down complex terminology, they left with a practical understanding of their rights and a clear approach to sharing this knowledge with others.

This achievement was not without challenges. Transforming new knowledge into actionable community awareness will require ongoing support and outreach, especially given the need for additional resources to enhance the committee’s reach and impact. Yet, ADS Nyanza’s commitment to human rights advocacy under PESP has given these local advocates a solid foundation and the confidence to foster a community culture where rights are understood, respected, and protected.

With ADS Nyanza’s continued support, the advocacy committee in West Kolunje is now positioned to champion the cause of human rights more effectively, marking an inspiring step forward for PESP’s vision of empowered and resilient communities.