Odindo Opiata started Hakijamii in 2004 as a continuation of his work as a human rights lawyer at Kituo Cha Sheria in order to provide longer term support to communities than litigation alone allows. He holds a Bachelor of Law degree from the University of Dar es Salaam, Tanzania and has attended numerous human rights trainings. He has long been involved in human rights activism, including Kenyan democracy struggles, serving three years in prison from 1986-1989 as a dissident under Kenya’s one-party state. He believes in empowering communities by informing them of their rights, assisting them with their day to day struggles, and complementing what they are already doing with new skills and evidence-based work. Opiata envisions that the work of Hakijamii and its partners will help ingrain a deep respect for human rights into the minds of all people so that someday every human being will see their right to equality and justice fulfilled.

Mr. Opiata multitasking at Hakijamii's office

Those that have met with Mr. Opiata have seen his drive and enthusiasm for advocacy work.  His passion and dedication has allowed many people to join the cause, with Hakijamii, to make basic human rights a reality for all.  His hard work over the years has improved the lives of countless people and we should all be grateful for the time and effort he has put into making Kenya a better place.  If more people follow his example I’m sure that Kenya and the world will see a brighter future.

Watch the video below to learn more about the life Mr. Opiata, Hakijamii, and his hopes for a better Kenya:

httpv://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Lopp0o4waG0