Human rights defenders in Kilifi County have launched the Civic Space Protection and Promotion Toolkit (CSPPT).
The toolkit marks a milestone for human rights defenders, leaders, and journalists in their fight to protect democratic space and human rights:
The toolkit developed by the Kenya Community Support Centre (KECOSCE) provides practical strategies to safeguard civic freedoms, including freedom of expression, peaceful assembly, that are increasingly under threat in Kenya and beyond.
KECOSCE Executive Director Phyllis Muema emphasized the importance of a vibrant civic space in democratic societies.
“This toolkit equips stakeholders with the knowledge and tools to defend their rights and amplify their voices,” said Muema
She said the toolkit offers actionable resources for advocacy, legal navigation, community mobilization, and protection mechanisms for activists and human rights defenders.
It reflects a strong international commitment to defending civic rights at the grassroots level.
The event brought together civil society organizations, local media, and policy influencers to deliberate on the shrinking civic space and build collective strategies for resistance and resilience.