Elizabeth Ekaru

A Tribute to a Woman Human Rights Defender and Environmentalist

Elizabeth Ibrahim Ekaru was an ardent champion of women's rights and an environmental and land rights advocate, in addition to being a peacemaker. Elizabeth was previously acknowledged for her efforts when she was awarded the Head of State Commendation Award for bravery and leading in the fight for human rights in Kenya.

The widespread nature of violence against defenders of women's human rights in Kenya is highlighted by the alleged murder of Elizabeth Ibrahim Ekaru. Her killing, which allegedly took place while defending land rights, is a true testimony of the risks, challenges and attacks that women human rights defenders continue to face in the line of their work. Her death exemplifies the high cost that women human rights defenders bear in their efforts to protect and advance the social, economic, cultural, and political rights enshrined in Kenya's 2010 Constitution.

We pay tribute to her lasting impact.