Empowering communities through advocacy, legal aid, partnerships, and social justice initiatives across Kenya.
Grassroots initiatives directly engaging and empowering local communities
On 27th January 2024, SJL joined activists in an anti-femicide campaign in Nairobi, Kenya. The protests were triggered by a surge in violence against women, with more than 10 women murdered since the beginning of the year. Demonstrators carried placards with hashtags such as #StopKillingUs and #EndFemicideKe, demanding government action to address the issue. The protests were prompted by the brutal murders of Kenyan women which gained widespread attention due to the gruesome nature of the crimes. As part of its call for Community- Based Action, SJL and other Kenyan organizations noted the rise of femicide with the majority of cases involving intimate partner violence..
Knowledge Success and The Collaborative invited SJL to discuss the Facilities Improvement Act, the Primary Health Care Act, the Social Health Insurance Act and the Digital Health Act, in terms of their impact on family planning and reproductive health services in Kenya. Participating in discussions hosted by Knowledge Success and The Collaborative regarding these laws, SJL deepens its commitment to stakeholder engagement. By understanding the implications of these acts, SJL strengthens her initiatives in rural communities of Homabay County...
SJL submitted Legislative Comments to the Maternal, Newborn and Child Health Bill, 2023. The Bill proposed a legal framework that can facilitate and enhance the delivery of quality maternal, newborn and child health services. In addition, the law would provide a platform for raising the profile and agenda for maternal newborn and child health services, and a framework for formal engagement, cooperation and promotion of a coordinated approach to service delivery of maternal, newborn and child health services in the country, Further, the Bill would provide a platform of engagements between the national and county governments, and to enhance accountability and social funding strategy for maternal, newborn and child health services. As part of stakeholder engagement through public participation, SJL submitted comments to the bill to the Law Society of Kenya for consideration.
Global and local collaborations amplifying our impact
The SJL team participated in the 67th UN Commission on the Status of Women (CSW67) in New York, USA, contributing to parallel events organized by the Associated Country Women of the World (ACWW). Discussions focused on rural women and youth as agents of change, reflecting on CSW62’s priority theme, “Empowering Rural Women and Girls.” CSW62 called for stronger legal and policy frameworks, inclusive economic and social policies, and enhanced leadership and decision-making for rural women and girls. However, shortly after these commitments, the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted progress, deepened existing inequalities, and diverted global priorities and resources. The pandemic exposed the harsh realities faced by rural women, including limited access to sexual and reproductive health services, inadequate education, poverty, and climate change impacts on agriculture. Drawing from its grassroots work in rural Kenya, SJL emphasized addressing systemic inequalities, learning from COVID-19’s effects, and advancing sustainable solutions that empower rural women and youth globally.
As one of the founding members of the Pro Bono Institute of Kenya, the Social Justice League (SJL) partnered with fellow stakeholders to launch the country’s first Pro Bono Clearing House. This milestone initiative was established to expand access to justice by connecting vulnerable individuals and communities with qualified legal professionals willing to offer services at no cost. Through its collaboration with the Institute, SJL is committed to delivering high-quality, community-centered pro bono legal support, particularly to marginalized and underserved populations. This strategic partnership has led to the development of the Strategic Litigation Program, an initiative designed to strengthen legal protection for the most vulnerable members of society. The program promotes collaboration among advocates, legal experts, and justice actors to pursue impactful cases that address systemic injustices. By combining expertise, resources, and shared commitment, SJL and its partners work to advance accountability, uphold human rights, and ensure that access to justice is not limited by financial constraints.
SJL attended the She’s the First Summit, which brought together grassroots organizations from across the world to share experiences and best practices in community engagement. The summit served as a powerful platform for inspiration, networking, training, and practical skill-building. It focused on amplifying the voices of girl activists, strengthening advocacy for gender equality, and advancing the Global Girls’ Bill of Rights, a framework promoting the fundamental rights and leadership of girls globally. SJL was invited in recognition of its impactful work advancing the rights of women and girls in Homabay County. Participation in the summit provided valuable opportunities to build partnerships, exchange ideas, and collaborate with like-minded organizations. Through these engagements, SJL strengthened its capacity to empower communities and champion sustainable initiatives that protect and promote the rights, education, and leadership of girls both locally and globally.
SJL attended the Annual Citizen’s Forum on Democracy and Digital Governance organized by the African Union Economic, Social & Cultural Council (ECOSOCC). The forum brought together Civil Society Organizations from across Africa and urged them to harness digital technologies to advance continental aspirations, particularly in strengthening democracy. Officially opening ECOSOCC’s 2nd Annual Citizens Forum, Eng. John Tanui, Principal Secretary in Kenya’s State Department for Information, Communications and Technology and Digital Economy, emphasized that digital governance can enhance citizen engagement and enable meaningful participation in decision-making processes. The forum was held on the sidelines of the 5th Mid-Year Coordination Meeting of the Assembly of the African Union, marking a significant moment in Africa’s pursuit of inclusive digital governance. The discussions fostered collaboration and critical reflection on democracy in the digital age. SJL highlighted both the opportunities created by digital innovation and the widening digital divide affecting rural communities lacking access to technological advancements.
SJL participated in the Teach For All Global Conference held in Nairobi, Kenya. The conference provided a valuable platform for dialogue on education, mentorship, and developing students as leaders. For SJL, this was especially impactful given its ongoing work with primary and secondary school students in rural communities of Homabay County. The discussions on nurturing young leaders, strengthening teaching practices, and promoting inclusive education directly aligned with SJL’s mission of empowering youth through knowledge and opportunity. Beyond participation, SJL leveraged the conference as an advocacy platform to amplify the voices of marginalized communities. The engagement reinforced the importance of equitable access to quality education and leadership development for students in rural areas. By connecting with global education stakeholders, SJL strengthened its capacity to champion sustainable, community-driven initiatives that support students in Homabay County and promote transformative leadership among young people.
Digital advocacy amplifying voices and driving change
International Women’s Day (IWD), celebrated every 8th March, is a powerful call for social justice and gender equality. It honors the remarkable achievements of women in social, economic, and political spheres while highlighting the ongoing challenges faced by marginalized women denied basic rights and opportunities. As an organization, SJL remains steadfast in advocating for gender equality and women’s empowerment. Through our community social media campaign, we amplify women’s voices, celebrate their successes, and stand against discrimination and inequality. Together, we commit to building a just world where every woman can thrive without barriers. #InternationalWomensDay #GenderEquality #SocialJustice
SJL joined the commemoration of the International Day of the Girl Child on October 11, recognizing girls’ rights and the unique challenges they face worldwide. The day highlights the need to address barriers such as limited access to education, gender-based violence, inequality, and discrimination that continue to affect girls globally. It serves as a platform to amplify the voices of girls and advocate for their full participation in social, economic, and political life. Aligned with the global Generation Equality movement, SJL reaffirmed its commitment to supporting adolescent girls as leaders and change-makers. By engaging communities and promoting awareness, SJL continues to champion a future where girls are empowered, protected, and given equal opportunities to thrive and shape a better world.
Through its campaign addressing the triple threat facing communities—Gender-Based Violence (GBV), teenage pregnancies, and HIV infections—SJL called for urgent, collective action to protect vulnerable populations, especially women and youth. The initiative highlighted how these interconnected challenges limit opportunities, perpetuate poverty, and undermine community well-being. SJL emphasized the importance of breaking the cycle of violence, empowering young people with accurate information, and promoting safe, healthy lifestyles. By strengthening community awareness, encouraging open dialogue, and supporting access to essential services, the organization advocates for prevention and long-term solutions. SJL envisions a future where every individual can live free from fear, discrimination, stigma, and inequality. #EndGBV #EndTeenPregnancy #StopHIVTransmission
SJL has undertaken a social media campaign calling for an end to period stigma by amplifying women’s voices and sharing personal stories about menstruation and related challenges. The campaign confronts harmful myths, silence, and discrimination that often surround menstruation, particularly in rural communities. Through this initiative, SJL advocates for equitable access to affordable menstrual products, comprehensive menstrual health education, and supportive community dialogue. By normalizing conversations around menstruation, the organization works to dismantle shame and barriers that limit girls’ education, confidence, and participation in daily life. SJL believes that menstrual health is a matter of dignity, equality, and human rights. By promoting awareness and policy attention, the campaign advances gender equality and safeguards the well-being of women and girls. #EndPeriodPoverty #MenstruationMatters #BreakTheSilence
Through a Social Media Campaign against Sexual Assault in April 2023, SJL raised awareness about sexual violence and urged the public to continue speaking out against abuse. The campaign strongly condemned victim shaming and blaming, emphasizing the need to stand in solidarity with survivors. By amplifying survivor voices, sharing support resources, and educating communities, SJL works to foster a culture rooted in respect, accountability, and compassion. The initiative challenged harmful social attitudes and behaviors that perpetuate violence while promoting the importance of consent and active bystander intervention. SJL remains committed to advocating for safer environments where everyone is protected from abuse and supported in seeking justice and healing. #SAAM #EndSexualAssault #SupportSurvivors
On-the-ground engagement and education
SJL facilitates discussions on sexual and reproductive health rights tailored for adolescents in Homabay. Through engaging sessions and interactive materials, we equip young minds with knowledge and confidence to make informed health choices.
During the 16 Days (Nov 25 - Dec 10), SJL engages adolescents and young girls, exploring GBV's complexities. Through interactive activities and open discussions, we empower girls with knowledge to recognize, resist, and report GBV.
SJL leads Community Dialogues engaging Village Elders, Youth, and CSOs on legal issues affecting marriage, succession, adoption, land and property rights. We provide free legal advice, empowering individuals to reclaim their rights.