Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa Dennis today joined key stakeholders for the official launch of the State of Human Rights Report 2024/2025, a flagship publication by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) that provides the most comprehensive and independent assessment of Kenya’s human rights performance over the past year.
Developed through rigorous monitoring, stakeholder engagements, field missions, and data analysis, the report reflects both progress and persistent gaps in the realization of rights as enshrined in the Constitution of Kenya, 2010 and Kenya’s international human rights obligations.
Highlights of Progress in the Reporting Period
Despite various socio-economic and political challenges, the report documents several notable milestones achieved across critical sectors:
Enhanced Investments in the Health Sector
Improved resource allocation to the health sector and the roll-out of reforms under the Social Health Authority (SHA) signal renewed commitment to Universal Health Coverage (UHC). Additionally, a landmark High Court decision on the unconstitutionality of Section 226 of the Penal Code strengthened protections for persons with mental health conditions, advancing Kenya’s compliance with international standards.
Strengthening the Education System
Reforms in the Competency-Based Education and Training (CBET) framework, recruitment of new teachers, and operationalization of the New Higher Education Funding Model (NHEFM) illustrate ongoing efforts to expand access, efficiency, and quality in the education sector. The Commission urges continued investment to ensure equitable access, especially for learners from vulnerable communities.
Expansion of Affordable Housing
The Affordable Housing Program recorded remarkable growth, with thousands of units completed and over 148,000 currently under construction across 43 counties. This demonstrates tangible progress in the realization of the right to adequate housing and inclusive urban development.
Advancements in Disability Inclusion
The enactment of the Persons with Disabilities Act, 2025, approval of the new Building Code, and commitments secured during the Global Disability Summit represent major strides in strengthening accessibility, safety standards, and equal participation for persons with disabilities.
Transformative Approaches to Refugee Protection
The implementation of the Shirika Plan marks a shift toward socio-economic integration of refugees, fostering dignity, self-reliance, and improved national security outcomes. The Commission encourages sustained adherence to human rights principles such as non-refoulement.
Reinforcing Anti-Corruption Structures
The operationalization of the Conflict-of-Interest Act, 2025, and stronger enforcement mechanisms by oversight bodies reflect progress in enhancing integrity, transparency, and accountability within public institutions.
Persistent Human Rights Challenges
While acknowledging progress, the report underscores several critical challenges that require urgent and coordinated response:
Gaps in Economic and Social Rights Realization
Shortages of medical supplies, delayed capitation for schools, food insecurity, and limited access to education and healthcare in marginalized regions continue to hinder the realization of economic and social rights.
Excessive Use of Force and Right to Life Violations
The Commission documented 57 violations of the right to life, particularly linked to civic protests and security operations. The report calls for the full operationalization of the National Coroners Service Act and adherence to the Minnesota Protocol to strengthen accountability and prevent impunity.
Contraction of Civic Space
KNCHR recorded enforced disappearances, abductions, arbitrary arrests, and injuries sustained during protests. The deployment of masked officers and use of unmarked vehicles—despite court directives—raises serious human rights concerns and erodes public trust.
Heightened Vulnerabilities Among Target Groups
- Children: Cases of FGM, violence, and disrupted learning remain pressing concerns.
- Women: Rising cases of femicide represent a national emergency requiring immediate, multi-sectoral interventions.
- Intersex Persons: Persistent discrimination, documentation barriers, and limited healthcare access highlight the need to fast-track the Intersex Persons Bill, 2024.
- Indigenous Communities: Ongoing land injustices, evictions, and slow implementation of the Ogiek judgment remain longstanding concerns that require urgent resolution.
- Youth: Profiling, arbitrary arrests, predatory digital lending, and restrictive digital laws negatively impact youth participation, livelihoods, and freedoms.
Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa Dennis’ Reflections
Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa Dennis emphasized that the report serves as a national accountability tool and a reflection of Kenya’s commitment to human rights, governance, and constitutionalism.
“The State of Human Rights Report is a mirror to our nation. It captures where we have made commendable progress, and equally where urgent action is required. Our commitment as KNCHR is to continue championing accountability, strengthening institutional responsiveness, and ensuring that every Kenyan enjoys the rights guaranteed under our Constitution.”
He further acknowledged the collaborative efforts of civil society, State agencies, community actors, and international partners who contributed to the development of the report.
Looking Ahead
The State of Human Rights Report 2024/2025 provides a clear roadmap for action. Key recommendations focus on:
- Strengthening policing and accountability mechanisms
- Addressing socio-economic inequalities
- Protecting civic freedoms and digital rights
- Advancing gender equality and ending femicide
- Enhancing access to justice and legal reforms
- Safeguarding vulnerable groups and marginalized communities
KNCHR reaffirms its unwavering commitment to monitoring, documenting, and responding to human rights violations, while promoting legal and policy reforms that anchor dignity, freedom, and equality for all.
Conclusion
The launch at Sarova Stanley marks a significant moment in Kenya’s ongoing human rights journey. As the country continues to navigate complex political, social, and economic landscapes, this report offers a critical evidence base to guide reforms, strengthen institutions, and uphold the vision of the Constitution.
Commissioner Dr. Wamalwa Dennis remains committed to championing a just, inclusive, and rights-centered Kenya—where every person, without exception, lives in dignity and enjoys the full protection of the law.