In Kenya, AJWS supports activists defending the land, water and other natural resources that sustain rural and Indigenous communities. Our partners have created a coalition of activists fighting the LAPSSET Corridor, a massive network of coal mines, ports, highways and oil pipelines that has threatened the lives and livelihoods of communities across the country. AJWS also supports Indigenous communities collaborating to defend their right to live in and protect their ancestral forest lands—efforts that are crucial in mitigating the worst impacts of climate change. And as the climate crisis continues to worsen droughts and food shortages, AJWS partners help communities adapt, innovate and survive.
Kenya severely restricts reproductive health services, criminalizes same sex relationships, and guarantees no legal protections for sex workers. In response, AJWS supports community-led initiatives to champion sexual health and rights and help people access reproductive services, end violence and discrimination, and expand what’s possible for Kenyan women, girls, LGBTQI+ people and sex workers. As these communities are regularly abused by police, our partners provide legal aid, fight discriminatory laws, break down stigmas and create safe spaces where all Kenyans can enjoy basic human rights and be fully themselves.
