The world celebrates the United Nations International Day in Support of Victims of Torture every June 26^th and this year amidst the COVID-19 pandemic IMLU still remembered the Victims and Survivors of Torture.

In commemoration of the day, IMLU scheduled several build-up activities and conducted peaceful marches in Mathare in Nairobi County and Kondele in Kisumu County. This year’s theme was “Support Life After Torture” calling for civil society, governments and communities to support victims rebuild their life after torture through a combination of services including medical, psychological, legal and social support.

IMLU called on the Kenyan Government to fully implement the Prevention of Torture Act which was enacted in 2017.

We continued to raise awareness and encourage public outcry against torture.  On 23^rd and 24^th June 2020, IMLU facilitated community dialogues in Mathare and Kondele to create awareness on torture. These forums created a platform for IMLU to understand the community needs, empower citizens on basic human rights principles and how to seek for redress and rehabilitation if one falls victim to torture.

IMLU and PRAWA Nigeria successfully conducted a regional webinar on June 26^th to commemorate the UN International Day in Support of Victims of Torture. The webinar discussed ways of preventing and responding to torture and ill-treatment during COVID-19 pandemic.

The webinar was graced by UNFVT, OHCHR, IRCT and the Zimbabwe Lawyers for Human Rights. The topics of discussions were:

“We must all commit to the healing of torture victims from the disturbing long-term effects of constant fear, debilitating depression and regular panic attacks which prevents them from caring for themselves, their families and contributing to their communities.” Deputy Director PRAWA Ogechi Ogu said.