Human Rights Defenders
of the Month
Every month, DefendDefenders profiles a human rights defender (HRD) from the East and Horn of Africa sub-region to raise awareness about the outstanding work conducted by HRDs.
Featured Defender
Musa Gassama
"When you plant a seed, you have the faith that it will grow. I left, but I had the faith that this network would grow, and its growth has exceeded my expectations."
Recent Defenders
Honoring the brave individuals who stand for justice in our region
Fatou Jagne Senghor
"It's tough to be a woman human rights defender. Even within the movement, there are biases. Women who dare to speak boldly are often dismissed unless they are brave and determined."
David Kaggwa
"I have seen thousands of people benefit from the grants and protection provided by DefendDefenders. Through my legal advisory role on the board, I'm able to give back to society."
Pacifique Nininahazwe
"DefendDefenders supported my evacuation and temporary relocation abroad. This organisation taught me, and many other HRDs in Burundi, the very concept of a human rights defender."
Dr. Zahara Nampewo
"A prominent Ugandan human rights lawyer, academic, and gender justice advocate with over two decades of experience in legal education and public interest litigation."
Andrews Kananga
"As Chairperson of RHRDN, working closely with DefendDefenders on protection initiatives, needs assessments, and support for HRDs from Rwanda and Burundi."