Activists Boniface Mwangi, Hanifa Adan, and Hussein Khalid have jointly been recognized as Human Rights Defenders of the Year at the prestigious 2024 Human Rights Awards, hosted by the Danish Embassy in Nairobi.
The trio was celebrated for their brave efforts during the Gen Z-led protests against Kenya’s Finance Bill 2024 and broader anti-government demonstrations.
In a statement shared by Hanifa on her X account on Friday, November 29, 2024, the awards, which spotlight outstanding contributions to human rights also honoured renowned activist Benna Buluma with the Lifetime Achievement Award.
“So honored to have been awarded as the Human Rights Defender of the year along side @husskhalid and @bonifacemwangi . Such an honor to share such privileges with the late Bena Buluma as well who won the lifetime achievement category! A phenomenal woman,” Hanifa wrote.
Adding;
“Human Rights Defender 2024. Dedicated to all our GenZ heroes.”
So honored to have been awarded as the Human Rights Defender of the year along side @husskhalid and @bonifacemwangi . Such an honor to share such privileges with the late Bena Buluma as well who won the lifetime achievement category! A phenomenal woman❤️ pic.twitter.com/zYpbNDnuCF
— Hanifa 🇵🇸 🇵🇸 (@Honeyfarsafi) November 29, 2024
Khalid also expressed his gratitude and solidarity with the movement and dedicated his award to Gen Z protesters who died during the nationwide anti-government protests.
“Honoured to be recognised as human rights defender of the year 2024 alongside @bonifacemwangi and @Honeyfarsafi. The award I dedicate to GenZ revolutionaries and shujaas who gave their lives and those abducted and maimed while fighting for a new Kenya. Aluta Continua…”
Who is Hanifa?
Hanifa Adan is a journalist and youth activist who played an active role in the Gen Z uprising, leveraging her platform to mobilize financial support for victims of police brutality.
Through the M-Changa fundraising platform, she raised money for medical bills, support for those with permanent injuries, and funeral expenses for those who lost their lives during the demonstrations.
Adan’s activism came at great personal cost, as she faced harassment and arrests.
Mwangi and Khalid
As an activist, Boniface Mwangi used his influence on social media to amplify the concerns of the Gen Z protesters. Mwangi condemned the proposed tax hikes and government economic policies that many viewed as oppressive. His advocacy often put him at risk, as he faced threats, numerous arrests and harassment from authorities.
On the other hand, Hussein Khalid offered legal and moral assistance during the protests. Like his fellow activists, Khalid endured arrests, smear campaigns, and threats to his safety.
