Our Blog

An overview of our organisational strategic direction from 2026 – 2031.

A weekend of learning, connection and collective power

From October 4 -16, 2023, the late Professor Ngũgĩ wa Thiong’o was hosted by Racial Justice Network (RJN), based in UK for a speaking tour, including a visit to Leeds University, his Alma Mater. Ngũgĩ  undertook graduate studies at the University of Leeds in 1964 where he also wrote his novel, A Grain of Wheat. […]

Standing with East and Central Africa Against Electoral Dictatorship and State Terror

People before profit Part 2: A reflection on how racial capitalism creeps into our organising and how we push back

Kenya’s Gen Z protesters demonstrate extraordinary courage in confronting a violent state apparatus that has killed over 80 people since June 2024. Their sophisticated analysis linking immediate economic grievances to colonial structures, their innovative use of technology for organization, and their transcendence of ethnic divisions represent a new model of African resistance. As one protester stated, “We are the people, and they’re supposed to listen because of the power of the people.”

The Racial Justice Network continues to stand in unwavering solidarity with the courageous youth of Kenya. The spirit of the 2024 Gen Z uprising against the Finance Bill has reignited in 2025, evolving into a powerful, nationwide movement demanding an end to police brutality, government corruption, and the crushing cost of living.

We condemn the violent state-sanctioned response to these renewed peaceful protests, which has tragically resulted in numerous deaths and injuries. The recent death of blogger Albert Omondi Ojwang in police custody is a painful reminder of the systemic injustices that fuel this movement.

We amplify the demands of Kenya’s young generation for justice, accountability, and a government that serves its people. Their fearless and creative resistance is a beacon of hope, and we join them in calling for an end to repression and for a truly just and equitable future for all Kenyans.

The following blog is an extension of the discussions which took place at the convening and political grounding for meaningful actions suggested by our communities. People before Profit explored the ways we resource and nourish our movements.

In this blog we embrace the spirit of Sankofa by sharing key moments of our work last year and reaffirming our commitment to our vision – of ending racial injustice and addressing legacies of colonialism.

Communities have long relied on mutual aid, collective care, and conflict resolution practices rooted in solidarity. This blog shares practical alternatives to keeping ourselves and our communities safe when we are in danger and when our sense of safety is disrupted.

Far from being neutral enforcers of safety, police forces have repeatedly been shown to harm the very communities they claim to protect. The criminal (in)justice system is geared toward punishment rather than prevention and healing. And it’s the communities already facing systemic inequalities that are targeted the most.

After considerable reflection and dialogue, the Racial Justice Network has decided to exit the Climate Action Leeds Partnership.