Kenya National Commision on Human Rights

KNCHR Commissioner Hon. Sara Bonaya appeared before the Parliamentary Health Committee, alongside Health CS Hon. Aden Duale, PS Dr. Ouma Oluga and fellow Independent Investigative Committee on Tissue and Organ Transplant Services (IICTOTS) members, to defend last year’s investigative report on Kenya’s tissue and organ transplant services and its reform proposals.

The report exposes serious gaps in regulation, oversight and accountability within transplant services and calls for stronger safeguards for donors and patients, building on the work she undertook as a member of the committee. These reforms are rooted in a human rights approach that affirms the right to health, human dignity and protection from exploitation for all patients and potential donors.

KNCHR received a courtesy call from the Centre for Enhancing Democracy and Good Governance (CEDGG) to explore areas of mutual collaboration, particularly at the intersection of climate change and human rights. During the engagement, the Commission apprised the Centre of its mandate as a state agency responsible for the oversight, protection, and promotion of human rights, with a specific focus on emerging violations linked to adverse climate change impacts and evolving environmental patterns.

Congratulations, Hon. Justice Dominic Rono, on your well-deserved appointment as a Judge of the High Court of Kenya. Your impactful service at KNCHR, particularly in advancing human rights within the Research and Compliance Division, speaks to your dedication to justice and dignity for all. The Bench is richer, and the Republic better served, with your Honour in its ranks.

Hongera!

KNCHR congratulates Hon. Lady Justice AnneMarie Muchimuti on her appointment & swearing-in as a Judge of the High Court. A former KNCHR Director of Research, Advocacy & Outreach, she brings deep expertise, integrity & strong human rights record.

Hongera Hon. Lady Justice!

KNCHR's Snr. Human Rights Officer, Elijah Rottok (2R) speaking at
“Political intolerance doesn’t just silence dissent, it shrinks the civic space in which truth can exist. When journalists are targeted for holding power to account, society loses its mirror. In line with this year’s World Press Freedom Day theme, KNCHR reaffirms that protecting media freedom is not optional. It is foundational to safeguarding all human rights.”

Journalists are not just storytellers, they are frontline human rights defenders:

- They document violations, often at great personal risk
- They amplify marginalized voices, including refugees, minorities, and victims of abuse
- They hold power to account, ensuring duty bearers uphold rights
- They contribute to peacebuilding and conflict prevention through accurate, ethical reporting

KNCHR appreciates each and every member of The Media, in Kenya and worldwide.

As the world comemorates Africa Day for the Protection of Persons in Pre-Trial Detention, KNCHR calls for:
- Greater use of non-custodial measures (alternatives to detention)
- End the criminalization of poverty by affording favorable bail and bond
- Implement bail and bond, and sentencing guidelines in Kenya
- Create stronger safeguards for special interest and vulnerable groups in the justice system
- Review the KNCHR Act to strengthen its powers to undertake independent monitoring and inspection of detention places, including unannounced visits.
-The government should implement commitments under the Luanda Guidelines, the Convention Against Torture, and ratify the OPCAT to ensure effective oversight of all places of detention.
Pre-trial detention should be the exception, not the norm.

KNCHR Vice Chairperson Dr. Raymond Nyeris, MBS (6R standing) attended the 47th Session of the Sub-Committee on Accreditation (SCA) of the Global Alliance of National Human Rights Institutions (GANHRI), representing the African Region.

The SCA membership is drawn from four regions: Africa, represented by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR); Europe, represented by the Croatia NHRI; Asia-Pacific, represented by the New Zealand NHRI; and the Americas, represented by the Honduras NHRI.

Today is the final day to submit feedback, memoranda and input on the KNCHR Draft Reparations Guidelines 2026.

KNCHR thanks everyone who has already participated in this important public process. For those yet to submit, there is still time. Submissions close at midnight tonight.

The Guidelines seek to ensure victims of human rights violations receive accessible, effective, and timely reparations, including compensation, rehabilitation, restitution, satisfaction and guarantees of non-repetition.

Send your feedback via email to: [email protected]
OR hand deliver to KNCHR Headquarters at CVS Plaza off Lenana Road and Regional Offices.

Read more: www.knchr.org/Our-Work/Reparations