Community-driven justice systems took centre stage in Kisumu as the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) joined stakeholders in the official launch of the Kondele Social Justice Centre and Manyatta B Social Justice Centre. Held under the theme “Justice Thrives When Communities Lead,” the initiative brings together oversight institutions, security agencies, civil society organisations and grassroots actors in a coordinated push to strengthen access to justice, human rights protection and accountability for vulnerable and marginalised communities living in informal settlements. The newly launched centres are located within informal settlements where residents continue to face significant social and economic challenges, including limited access to justice services and public institutions.
The centres are expected to serve as accessible community-based platforms for documenting complaints, supporting referrals, promoting civic awareness and strengthening responses to cases of injustice. Stakeholders noted that such grassroots structures play a critical role in bridging the gap between communities and formal justice systems.
The engagement brought together a wide range of actors, including oversight bodies, security agencies, civil society organisations, faith-based institutions and community representatives from across the country. Participants emphasised the importance of coordinated action between institutions and communities in promoting accountability and improving access to justice. The discussions highlighted that effective justice systems require trust-building, information sharing and sustained collaboration across all levels of governance.
The social justice centres are expected to support documentation of complaints, strengthen referral pathways, promote civic education and provide community-based support for survivors of rights violations. Stakeholders noted that these functions are critical in enhancing early response to violations and improving accountability at community level. The centres are also expected to foster civic participation and strengthen awareness of rights and responsibilities among residents.
The National Gender and Equality Commission reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships with social justice centres and community structures. The Commission noted that collaboration with grassroots institutions is key to advancing equality, inclusion and access to justice for all. Through such engagements, NGEC continues to support efforts aimed at strengthening accountability systems and promoting human dignity, particularly for vulnerable populations.
The launch of the Kondele and Manyatta B Social Justice Centres marks a step toward strengthening community-led approaches to justice and human rights protection in Kisumu. Stakeholders emphasised that sustainable accountability requires strong collaboration between communities, institutions and local leadership.
