1. CURRENT STATUS
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) is an independent
national human rights institution (NHRI) established under the Kenyan law and in line
with the Paris Principles with the mandate to promote the respect, protection and
observance of human rights in Kenya. In line with its mandate, KNCHR reviews
legislation and policy; works with State and non-State actors and monitors the State’s
fulfilment of its human rights obligations. This is to ensure compliance with the
Constitution of Kenya (2010) and international human rights standards and principles.
KNCHR was granted affiliate by the African Commission on Human and Peoples’
Rights during its 36th Ordinary Session which happened on 23rd November to 7th
December, 2004. Since then, KNCHR has been involved in the activities of the African
Commission and has promoted its activities in Kenya.
At the time of KNCHR being granted affiliate status by ACHPR, it was a statutory body
having been established under an Act of Parliament. In 2010, a new Constitution was
adopted in Kenya which made KNCHR a constitutional commission under Article 59.
Further details of its structure and mandate are contained in the KNCHR Act of 2011.
KNCHR has maintained a close working relationship with Civil Society Organizations
in the work of promotions and protection of human rights. KNCHR collaborates with
CSOs to send information to the ACHPR on the status of human rights in Kenya.
2. RELATIONSHIP WITH AFRICAN COMMISSION
KNCHR has a good working relationship with the African Commission. Since it was
granted affiliate status in 2004, KNCHR has interacted with the Commission and
participated in its Sessions. It has also worked to support the Commission’s work in
Kenya. KNCHR has interacted with the Commissioners and Special Rapporteurs from
the ACHPR whenever they visited Kenya on a mission.
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