CSO Network

CSO Network The Civil Society Organization Network for Western and Nyanza Province

As we approach World Environment Day, we are reminded that the fight for our planet is also a fight for people. In this ...
29/05/2026

As we approach World Environment Day, we are reminded that the fight for our planet is also a fight for people. In this blog, grantee Environmental Rights Organization-EROG Network Coordinator Fardosa Mustafa highlights that protecting environmental defenders is essential for human rights, accountability, and meaningful climate action.

Across East Africa, environmental defenders are standing on the frontlines of the climate crisis. Because of this, they face intimidation, harassment, and even physical harm for protecting land, water, and communities.

“Communities cannot effectively participate in environmental governance or climate action when defenders are silenced, criminalised, or left without protection.”

Protecting environmental defenders is not just about human rights — it is central to climate justice.

Through the Haki Ni Yetu project, support to EROG has helped build regional solidarity, strengthen rapid response systems, and empower defenders to safely advance environmental justice. Haki Ni Yetu receives funding from the EU Delegation to Kenya.

Read Full Blog: https://kios.fi/en/2026/05/protecting-environmental-defenders-in-the-climate-crisis-why-regional-solidarity-and-policy-action-matter/



European Union in Kenya KIOS InformAction Kenya

Wishing you and your family a joyful celebration.
27/05/2026

Wishing you and your family a joyful celebration.

This afternoon, we held a meeting with Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) in Vihiga County to discuss emerging early w...
21/05/2026

This afternoon, we held a meeting with Women Human Rights Defenders (WHRDs) in Vihiga County to discuss emerging early warning signs of violence as the country gradually heads towards the 2027 electioneering period. The conversation comes at a time when communities continue to witness rampant killings of young girls and increasing insecurity affecting women and vulnerable groups across the county.

The meeting emphasized the critical role of WHRDs as frontline actors and foot soldiers within communities in identifying, documenting, and responding to early signs of violence before situations escalate. Participants noted with concern the growing political divisions among women, calling for intentional efforts to promote unity, peacebuilding, and community-driven peace campaigns during this period.

Concerns were also raised over the increasing mobilization of young people into violent groups and gangs linked to human rights violations. Participants stressed the need for proper documentation, packaging of information, and timely reporting to relevant authorities for action and accountability.

The discussions further highlighted poverty, unemployment, and insecurity as key drivers fueling violence and vulnerability within communities in Vihiga County. There was a collective call for stronger coordination, community sensitization, and collaborative action to protect women and girls and strengthen community safety ahead of the election period.


Together with PHR Kenya, we convened a Vihiga County Gender Sector Working Group meeting on election preparedness, focus...
21/05/2026

Together with PHR Kenya, we convened a Vihiga County Gender Sector Working Group meeting on election preparedness, focusing on strengthening early warning and early response mechanisms ahead of the election period. The meeting brought together stakeholders, including IEBC, Judiciary, Kenya Red Cross, National Police Service, ODPP, Interfaith Network, ACCs, Social Justice Centres, Bodaboda leadership, women peace actors, youth representatives, and business leaders, to discuss coordinated prevention and response strategies.

The discussions highlighted emerging early warning signs within communities, including the growing “nduthi culture,” reggae convoys during funerals, political divisions, and increasing cases of drug and substance abuse among youth. Women peace actors raised concerns over the vulnerability of young girls during such occurrences and emphasized the need for stronger community sensitization and engagement.

Religious leaders are committed to supporting peacebuilding efforts through guidance, awareness-raising, and strengthening referral pathways for survivors. At the same time, bodaboda leadership pledged to develop strategies to address harmful practices that contribute to insecurity and violence within communities.

The National Police Service reaffirmed its readiness to respond to incidents through the toll-free numbers 999/911 while emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and community responsibility. The Health Department also highlighted ongoing efforts in training health workers to strengthen treatment and psychosocial support services for survivors.

This engagement is part of the Strengthening the Rights of SGBV Survivors Through Improving Access to Justice project funded by AICS Agenzia Italiana per la Cooperazione allo Sviluppo - Ufficio di Nairobi through UN Women.



Under the Project, we convened grassroots organizations in Siaya County for a Grassroots Strategy Forum focused on min...
13/05/2026

Under the Project, we convened grassroots organizations in Siaya County for a Grassroots Strategy Forum focused on mining, nuclear energy, environmental justice, and community rights.

The forum comes at a critical time following recent tragic incidents linked to mining activities in the county that have resulted in loss of lives and growing concerns over environmental safety and community wellbeing.

The engagement sought to strengthen the capacity of grassroots organizations to support affected communities in accessing adequate information necessary for meaningful consultation and participation in large-scale development projects. The discussions also focused on building understanding of community rights, environmental accountability, and developing lawful, evidence-based, and community-centered advocacy strategies that promote transparency, justice, and accountability.

Through collective action and informed advocacy, communities can better safeguard their rights, protect their environment, and meaningfully engage in decisions that affect their lives and livelihoods.



European Union in Kenya KIOS InformAction Kenya Sulwe Siaya SIAYA COUNTY AFFAIRS

To all mothers, thank you for your endless love, strength, sacrifice, and care. You are the heartbeat of families and th...
10/05/2026

To all mothers, thank you for your endless love, strength, sacrifice, and care. You are the heartbeat of families and the foundation of society.
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Happy Labour Day! ✊🏾We celebrate the resilience and hard work of all workers driving change in our communities. Your voi...
01/05/2026

Happy Labour Day! ✊🏾

We celebrate the resilience and hard work of all workers driving change in our communities. Your voice and rights matter.

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