by Inuka Kenya | Sep 23, 2024 | Articles, Stories
September is a time for reflection. For some, it’s the month summer ends and routines return. But for others, like me, it’s a month that carries a heavier meaning – it’s Suicide Awareness Month, a period dedicated to shedding light on the quiet battles many face, often in silence. It’s a time for remembering, for healing, and most importantly, for action.
It wasn’t always like this for me. There was a time when I, too, was unaware of the significance of this month. Until five years ago, when I lost my dear friend, Sam. Sam wasn’t just a friend – he was the guy who could light up any room with his laugh, the one who always had the wildest stories, and the best advice. He was the kind of person who seemed invincible.
But beneath the surface, Sam was drowning. I didn’t know that his laughter masked a deeper struggle. We all missed it. We all thought he was “just having a bad day” when he started to withdraw. We didn’t see the signs until it was too late. I’ll never forget that morning when I got the call. Sam had taken his life the night before.
At that moment, my world collapsed. I had so many questions. Why didn’t I see it? Why didn’t I ask more? I had no answers, only an overwhelming wave of guilt and sadness.
Since Sam’s death, September has taken on a new significance for me. I’ve learned that suicide doesn’t happen in isolation, and neither does the path to recovery for those contemplating it. There are small, seemingly insignificant moments that can change the course of someone’s life. And that’s what Suicide Awareness Month is all about—finding those moments, acting on them, and creating hope.
Understanding the Silent Struggle
Many of us don’t recognize that those struggling with suicidal thoughts may not show obvious signs. The struggle can be silent. It’s often hidden behind a smile, a joke, or an “I’m fine” response. But, in reality, the internal pain can be unbearable.
People who are battling suicidal thoughts often feel trapped in a dark tunnel, unable to see a way out. The weight of the world feels like it’s pressing down on them, suffocating them. And while it may seem hopeless from the outside, hope is always there. It might be dim, but it’s real. And our actions, even the smallest ones, can be the light someone needs to hold on to.
What to Do If You’re Feeling Suicidal
If you’re the one in pain, feeling like there’s no way out, I want you to know this: you are not alone. There are people who care about you, even when it doesn’t feel that way. Here are some steps that might help when the weight feels unbearable:
- Talk to Someone You Trust: It’s hard, but opening up to a friend, family member, or even a helpline can help you feel less alone. You deserve to be heard.
- Seek Professional Help: Therapists, counselors, and support groups exist for a reason. They are trained to help people navigate through the darkness.
- Avoid Isolation:It might feel tempting to withdraw, but being around others, even if you don’t engage much, can help keep those dark thoughts at bay.
- Create a Safety Plan:Identify triggers and have a list of people to call when things get overwhelming. Sometimes having a plan can give you a sense of control.
- Remember That This Feeling is Temporary:It’s hard to believe in the moment, but suicidal thoughts do pass. The pain you’re feeling now won’t last forever.
Steps to Help Someone Who May Be Struggling
If you’ve noticed someone close to you showing signs of withdrawal, hopelessness, or even recklessness, it’s crucial to act. Here’s how you can help:
- Reach Out:It’s as simple as starting a conversation. Ask how they’re doing—**really** doing. Sometimes, just knowing someone cares enough to ask can be the first step toward healing.
- Listen Without Judgment:When they open up, let them talk. Don’t interrupt, don’t offer immediate solutions, just listen. Sometimes, what people need most is someone who hears their pain.
- Offer Support: Whether it’s helping them seek professional help, going with them to therapy, or even just checking in regularly, be there for them. You don’t have to have all the answers; your presence alone can make a difference.
- Encourage Professional Help: While your support is invaluable, professionals are equipped to offer the therapy and care needed. Encourage them to seek help from a counselor or psychologist, or to call a helpline if needed.
- Create a Safe Space: Make sure they know they’re not a burden. Let them know they’re loved and supported unconditionally.
Together, we can make sure that hope always finds a way. If you or someone you know is struggling, please don’t hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional or a local helpline. Your life is worth fighting for.
by Inuka Kenya | Sep 19, 2024 | Press Statements, Stories
FOR IMMEDIATE PRESS RELEASE
MOMBASA, Kenya, September 19th, 2024 – State of Civic Space Under Siege
As we come to the close of the 4th Civic Space Protection Summit, we wish to express our disappointment over the current state of civic space in Kenya which is still troubling even as Kenya joined the other countries in the celebrations of International Day of Democracy on the 15th of September 2024. The state has, over the past 24 months, demonstrated that they have no regard for the Constitution, Independent oversight bodies and the civil society.
Defiance of court orders and people’s wishes by the state senior state officials continue to be one of the key challenges to advancement of civil liberties in the country. We condemn this culture of impunity and expect the Acting IG Masengeli will lead by example by obeying the court order and present himself to the Commissioner General of Prisons to begin serving his 6-month sentence. Failure to do so, Kenyans will expect the Interior Cabinet Secretary to initiate steps to have him committed. We would like to remind the government that the primary reason for court summons against the Acting IG is to ensure that the Kitengela 3 are produced in court -we still demand their immediate unconditional release. Should the CS fail to initiate the steps, we urge the public to initiate citizens’ arrest against Masengeli.
The right to peaceful protest, enshrined in Article 37 of our Constitution, remains under severe attack. As recent events such as the #RejectFinanceBill2024 protests have shown, extrajudicial killings, arbitrary arrests, and abductions by state actors have become far too common. We are reaffirming our stance that these violations must end. We will continue to hold security agencies accountable for their actions and demand justice for those whose rights have been violated. The Assemblies and Demonstrations Bill of 2024 which is on the floor of the National Assembly is one of the indications that the state has no intention of implementing the Constitution. Over sixty civil society leaders and human rights defenders have lost their lives over the past two years. The courage of those who have sacrificed their lives, freedoms, and livelihoods in defense of justice, equality, and human dignity. We demand the suspension and interdiction of the police officers involved in these criminal acts and continued harassment and abductions. We further condemn the police actions against Trever Mathege Mureithi, a first year student at Multimedia University who was severely injured and had teargas canister lobbed at him at close range. He is currently admitted to a medical facility in critical condition. The use of such lethal crowd control weapons by the NPS has been normalized despite a court order banning their use.
Despite the robust framework on public participation under the Constitution, we continue to witness deliberate and negligently abdication of its duty to engage the public in the development process especially those that have negative consequences on taxpayers. As such, over the past months, we have witnessed erosion of fiscal accountability, observing how mismanagement of public resources directly impacts human rights. The last two years have shown us that authoritarian leadership, coupled with corruption, is not just a fiscal issue but a human rights one. The mismanagement of public funds, widespread corruption, and the intimidation of oversight institutions not only violate our right to transparent governance but also limit the government’s ability to provide essential services to its citizens. The recent case of Adani procurement is a classic example of states deliberate effort to subvert the constitution to the benefit of a few. We want to call for stronger independent institutions, greater accountability, and an end to the misuse of state agencies to suppress dissent.
Kenya has one of the most vibrant digital activism in the globe. However, while the young people have embraced this space, the state has continued to use repressive tactics and administrative actions to suppress freedoms. State surveillance that leads to abduction and cyber bullying and propaganda has led to self-censorship. We stand firm in our commitment to defend digital rights and ensure that the internet remains a space for free expression, advocacy, and civic engagement.
We wish to end by reaffirming our strong position in its mission to protect, promote, and expand civic space in Kenya. The road ahead may be tough, but we are resilient. Our democracy depends on it.
Thank You.
Signed by:
by Inuka Kenya | Aug 27, 2024 | Articles, Stories
On August 27, 2010, a historic moment unfolded in Kenya as the 2010 Constitution was publicly promulgated at the iconic Uhuru Park. This event marked a significant milestone in the country’s long struggle for democracy, which spanned from the pre-independence era through the fight against dictatorship and authoritarianism. The journey to this new constitution was not just a legal endeavour; it was a testament to the resilience and aspirations of the Kenyan people.
A Legacy of Struggle
The road to the 2010 Constitution was paved with challenges and sacrifices. The previous constitution had been amended over 20 times, often in ways that undermined the very principles of democracy and justice. It was a pale reflection of the hopes that the Kenyan delegation had envisioned during the Lancaster Conferences in London in the early 1960s. The 2010 Constitution aimed to rectify these historical injustices and lay a solid foundation for a democratic Kenya.
The Promise of the 2010 Constitution
The 2010 Constitution introduced transformative changes that have greatly benefited the people of Kenya. Key features include:
- Devolution of Power: The establishment of county governments has brought governance closer to the people, allowing for more localized decision-making and resource allocation.
- Bill of Rights: The Constitution enshrines fundamental rights and freedoms, ensuring every Kenyan has access to justice and equality before the law.
- Gender Equality: It mandates the inclusion of women in political and public life, promoting gender equity and representation.
- Public Participation: The Constitution emphasizes the importance of citizen engagement in governance, ensuring that the voices of all Kenyans are heard.
These provisions have empowered citizens, fostering a sense of ownership and responsibility in the democratic process.
The Role of Gen Z
As we celebrate the 14th anniversary of the 2010 Constitution, we must acknowledge the emerging force of Generation Z. Born between 1997 and 2012, this digital-savvy generation has become a powerful catalyst for change. While many members may lack direct memory of the events leading to the new constitution, their engagement with technology has allowed them to mobilize, organize, and advocate for their rights effectively.
Gen Z has demonstrated a commitment to upholding the Constitution, as outlined in Article 3, which emphasizes the duty of every citizen to defend it. Their collective voice reminds them that the quest for justice and equality is ongoing, and they are determined to hold leaders accountable.
Adherence to the Constitution
However, the question remains: have our leaders adhered to the tenets of the 2010 Constitution? While the Constitution has provided a framework for governance, the reality is that many challenges persist. Issues such as corruption, political patronage, and violations of human rights continue to undermine the spirit of the Constitution.
Despite these hurdles, the resilience of the Kenyan people, particularly the youth, shines through. They are not just passive observers; they are active participants in shaping the future of the nation. Through social media campaigns, protests, and grassroots movements, Gen Z is pushing for accountability and transparency from their leaders.
Looking Ahead
As we reflect on the past 14 years, it is clear that the journey of the 2010 Constitution is far from over. The aspirations that fueled its creation remain alive, and the responsibility to uphold these ideals lies with all Kenyans, especially the youth.
The future destiny of Kenya indeed rests in the bodies, minds, and souls of Gen Z. Their energy, creativity, and determination are vital in ensuring that the promises of the Constitution are realized. As we commemorate this landmark anniversary, let us commit to working together to build a Kenya that truly reflects the values enshrined in the 2010 Constitution—a Kenya where justice, equality, and democracy thrive for all.
In the words of the Constitution, let us stand together to defend and uphold the rights and freedoms that are the birthright of every Kenyan. The journey continues, and the best is yet to come.
by Inuka Kenya | Aug 22, 2024 | Opportunities
RE-ADVERTISED
About Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi
Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi! Is a Kenyan grassroots social movement organization founded in 2009 and registered/incorporated as a Company Limited by Guarantee in 2012. It envisions a peaceful, united and well-governed Kenya with equal economic and social opportunity for all citizens. The organization exists to empower Kenyan citizens to improve their lives and demand good governance as a means to achieve socio-economic growth and equality of opportunity among all Kenyans. It aims to curate a social movement (the Ni Sisi! Movement) that will seek to unite Kenyans to forge a collective identity, drive transformation in leadership and improve maisha — wellbeing — for all Kenyans. To this end, Inuka supports community groups/organizations and collaborates with initiatives at the local, national and regional level to build capacity and linkages for effective collective action. Inuka Kenya Ni Sisi! philosophy is underpinned by the concept of “dignity before development” — each individual’s inherent dignity must be upheld at all levels of interaction.
Inuka Kenya has developed three strategic objectives which, together, will form the basis upon which citizens at the local level will find their efforts to take charge of their citizenship and governance processes. As such, the three objectives are the key pillars that will support the creation of a Ni Sisi! Social movement. These three objectives are:
- Restructure the Public Sphere: To create and curate narratives that seek to restructure the Kenyan public sphere using knowledge platforms, technology products and engaging civic actors and institutions within a framework of Utu.
- Enhance Individual Agency, Dignity and Livelihoods: To harness a collective positive and resilient identity in order to build, protect, restore and ensure human dignity for all.
- Transition to a National Social Movement: To transition from a Civil Society Organization, through partnerships, collaboration and membership development, to a national social movement of active citizens who hold governments to account.
Background and Purpose
The purpose of this research is to document the struggles, resilience, and contributions of heroines in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda. The focus will be on women who have made significant impacts in various fields such as social justice, human rights, community development, education, and healthcare. This documentation will highlight their challenges, triumphs, and the socio-cultural and political environments in which they operate.
Objectives of the study
Recognising the role played by various unsung and underrated heroines of the justice and liberation movements in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania, the project seeks to produce documentaries unveiling the compelling narratives of unsung women human activists.
- To map out the heroines and their liberation struggles in the three countries.
- To memorialize the courage, dedication, commitment and solidarity of various women personalities in justice and liberation movements.
- To shed light on the resilience of women who dared to challenge oppression in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania
- To document the role of various women personalities for the current and future generation.
Scope of Work
- Literature Review: Conduct a comprehensive review of existing literature on women’s struggles and contributions in East Africa, focusing on Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- Field Research: conduct interviews and gather firsthand accounts from the heroines, their families, community members, and other stakeholders.
- Data Collection: Utilize a mixed-method approach, including qualitative interviews, focus group discussions, and case studies, to gather detailed information on the struggles, achievements, and impacts of the identified heroines.
- Documentation: Compile and document the stories of selected heroines, ensuring a diverse representation of backgrounds, fields of work, and geographical locations.
- Analysis: Analyze the collected data to identify common themes, challenges, and strategies used by these women, and how these reflect the broader socio-cultural and political contexts of the region.
Methodology
- Qualitative Research: Employ qualitative research methods, including in-depth interviews, narrative analysis, and ethnographic approaches, to capture the nuanced experiences of the heroines.
- Participatory Approach: Engage the heroines and their communities in the research process to ensure that their voices and perspectives are accurately represented.
- Triangulation: Cross-reference data from multiple sources (e.g., interviews, literature, archival records) to ensure the reliability and validity of findings.
- Ethical Considerations: Adhere to ethical research standards, including obtaining informed consent, ensuring confidentiality, and respecting the dignity and autonomy of all participants.
Deliverables/Expected outputs
The consultant will work closely with Inuka staff to refine the proposed scope of work prior to the commencement of the assignment.
Key outputs will include the following:
- Develop a preliminary audio-visual and script on the struggles and liberation of the unsung heroines.
- Provide a detailed work plan clearly showing the information gathering, planning, design, development, testing and delivery of the assignment
- Provide detailed documentation of the heroines in Kenya, Tanzania and Uganda.
- Develop a script and audio-visual documentary for each of the heroines for dissemination.
Caveat: All the materials, information and reports as an output of the assignment shall be the property of Inuka and the Consultant is bound by Inuka’s confidentiality requirements.
Work Plan and Time Schedule
The assignment will commence on January 13th, 2025 and be completed and a final report submitted by April 11th, 2025
Consultant’s Profile
Inuka seeks to engage the services of qualified and experienced individual consultants/consultancy firms to undertake the work:
Qualifications & Experience
The consultants/consultant firms must have the following qualifications and experience:
- Experience in working in Kenya, Uganda and Tanzania and thorough knowledge of the struggle and liberation history.
- Strong understanding of gender issues, women’s rights, and socio-cultural and political dynamics in Kenya, Tanzania, and Uganda.
- Excellent writing and communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly and effectively.
- Fluency in English and proficiency in local languages spoken in the research areas is an advantage.
- Awareness of copyright laws, consent, and ethical standards in documentary filmmaking.
- An eye for detail and a creative vision to guide the documentary’s visual style, tone, and overall aesthetic.
- The ability to craft a compelling narrative that effectively conveys the intended message, with a strong understanding of structure, pacing, and audience engagement.
Individuals / Organizations are invited to apply by submitting the following documents.
- Reference materials of previous assignments done.
- Curriculum Vitae of the individual(s) that will undertake the assignment.
- Proposed methodology and timeliness for the assignment.
- A budget quotation for the costs of the assignment.
Budget and Logistics
The consultant shall submit the proposed budget with broken down costs for particular items, for the assignment, including breakdown and justification.
Submission of proposals /EOI
Based on the above, Inuka is inviting interested parties to submit expressions of interest. Individuals or firms applying shall detail the following:
- Consultants’ profile and Capability Statement describing the technical capacity and experience of the firm or group of individuals
- Names and resumes of the individual(s) or team members proposed and their roles in the achievement of the assignment
- Testimonials and sample reports of similar assignments taken in the recent past
- Technical Proposal interpretation of the Terms of Reference (TORs)
- Financial Proposal demonstrating the costs of the consultancy
- Detailed implementation plan and time frames.
The proposal shall be sent, in soft, to the following emails: procurement@inukakenya.com and copy kenya@eawellnesshub.org
Previous applicants do not need to reapply.
The deadline for submission is November 27th, 2024. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
by Inuka Kenya | Aug 20, 2024 | Articles, Stories
I remember the day Sarah walked into our wellness class, her shoulders slumped and her eyes heavy with exhaustion. Sarah was always the cheerful one—the one who brought smiles and positive energy everywhere she went. But that day was different. She didn’t need to say a word; we all knew something was wrong.
After class, she sat with me in silence for a while, fidgeting with her phone before finally speaking. “I don’t know what’s wrong with me. I just… feel empty.”
I could see the frustration in her eyes. The pressure to keep it together was written all over her face, but behind it, there was something deeper—a cry for help, a feeling many of us experience but rarely talk about.
“I just need to be okay,” she said, her voice breaking.
And there it was: the belief so many of us have—that we always need to be okay.
But here’s the truth I told Sarah that day, a truth we often forget: **It’s okay not to be okay.**
The Pressure to Be Perfect
We live in a world where everyone’s life looks perfect online. Social media is full of happy faces, exciting travels, and picture-perfect moments. It’s easy to believe that everyone has it all together, and if you’re struggling, you must be doing something wrong.
But what we don’t see are the tough moments-the tears, the anxiety, the sleepless nights. No one is perfect, and no one has it together all the time. Yet, we constantly pressure ourselves to feel okay, to act like everything is fine when, inside, it feels like a storm.
Sarah’s story is a reminder of how human we all are. No matter how much we try to smile through the pain, our emotions are a part of us. And sometimes, they demand to be felt.
The Power of Accepting Our Emotions
As Sarah and I talked that day, I asked her to try something she hadn’t done in a long time – accept how she felt without judgment.
“I feel lost,” she whispered. And with that admission came a flood of emotions—sadness, frustration, confusion. But for the first time, Sarah allowed herself to **just feel** without trying to fix anything.
And that’s the magic. The moment we accept our emotions, we begin to heal. It doesn’t mean the sadness goes away instantly, but by acknowledging it, we give ourselves permission to be human.
Healing Through Connection
Over the next few weeks, Sarah started sharing her journey with close friends and family. At first, she feared they would think less of her, but something surprising happened—many opened up about their own struggles. She realized she wasn’t alone.
In our darkest moments, it’s easy to feel isolated, but the truth is, we are all carrying something. When we open up, we find support, connection, and understanding. That’s where healing begins—not in pretending everything is fine but in sharing our truth with others.
It’s Okay Not to Be Okay
If you’re feeling like Sarah did that day—overwhelmed, lost, or simply not yourself—know that you don’t need to be okay right now. Life has its ups and downs, and every emotion you feel is valid.
Take a deep breath. Share your feelings with someone you trust. Most importantly, give yourself permission to feel whatever you’re feeling.
Because in the end, it’s okay not to be okay.
And that’s where true healing begins.
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