Nairobi, June 2025 — As we mark one year since the Finance Bill demonstrations of June 25, 2024, Greenpeace Africa expresses its solidarity with the people of Kenya, particularly young Kenyans, who continue to engage constructively in national conversations around justice, accountability, and inclusive governance.

The right to peaceful protest and freedom of expression are essential components of any healthy democracy. These rights form the foundation of civic engagement and are central to the broader struggle for social, environmental, and economic justice. We acknowledge the importance of ensuring that all citizens, especially the youth, feel safe and empowered to voice their concerns and aspirations.

In the past year, concerns have been raised by citizens, civil society organisations, and human rights bodies, regarding incidents where peaceful demonstrations have been met with restrictions and where online expression has come under scrutiny. Such developments highlight the need for continued dialogue on how civic freedoms can be protected while maintaining public order and security.

Greenpeace Africa encourages a collaborative approach in addressing these challenges. We believe that open and inclusive spaces for civic participation strengthen national unity and resilience. Ensuring that the rights to peaceful assembly and expression are upheld not only reinforces constitutional values, but also builds trust between citizens and institutions.

In this spirit, we urgently call for:

  • Continued efforts to safeguard the rights of peaceful protesters and online voices in accordance with the Kenyan Constitution
  • Transparent and impartial investigations into any incidents of concern related to civic engagement
  • Ongoing dialogue between authorities, civil society, and youth to foster mutual understanding and collective progress

Greenpeace Africa remains committed to standing with communities, especially with the youth, as they engage in peaceful efforts to shape a just and sustainable future. We reaffirm that environmental justice is inseparable from human rights, and we will continue to work alongside partners and institutions to promote dignity, fairness, and democracy in Kenya and across the continent.