AJWS Blog
The AJWS community has a lot to say about what's happening in the world. Read our insights about the struggle for justice and human rights around the globe — and meet the activists on the frontlines of the fight to build a better world.
Reflections on President Obama’s visit to Kenya
by Gitahi Githuku and Caroline Kouassiaman For over a month prior to President Obama’s visit to Kenya, “POTUS” was the hot topic of conversation, as much of the country was captivated by Obama’s first visit to his father’s homeland as President. The fact that President Obama had kin in Kenya coined the popular term “Our …
Safeguarding the Waters in Nyakakoma: Reflections From the Democratic Republic of Congo
Charles Mukandirwa, my colleague in the DRC, had warned me that travel inside the country was not easy. But I only fully realized how challenging it was when I did it myself. We were accompanying Jeredy Malonga, who works for AJWS grantee CREDDHO (Centre for Research and Investigation into the Environment, Democracy and Human Rights), …
Empowering Kitshanga Women to Stand Up for Their Rights: Reflections From the Democratic Republic of Congo
On our way to Nyakakoma, Democratic Republic of Congo, we’d spent a night in the town of Ishaha, just across the Uganda border. It reminded me of the Wild West: a small town, a main drag, ramshackle buildings on either side, one hotel, rumors of bandits or rebels nearby, and immigration officials seeking a bribe.
Why Obama Should Address Human Rights in Kenya
President Obama will make his historic visit to Kenya this weekend—his first trip to his father’s homeland as president. As Kenya’s people eagerly anticipate his homecoming, AJWS’s Kenyan grantees are urging President Obama to address the critical human rights issues affecting marginalized communities in Kenya—including women, girls, LGBT people, and Kenya’s rural populations. Since 2004, AJWS has supported grassroots organizations in Kenya that …