NAIROBI, Kenya- CNN International Correspondent Larry Madowo has been named the Human Rights Defender of the Year in recognition of his courageous reporting during Kenya’s 2024 Gen Z-led anti-government protests and his continued coverage of civic unrest across East Africa.
The prestigious award was presented by the Defenders Coalition during its 10th anniversary celebrations, honouring individuals who have demonstrated exceptional bravery in defending human rights and exposing authoritarian excesses.
Madowo, one of Kenya’s most internationally recognised journalists, was celebrated for his fearless on-the-ground reporting during a tense period in the country’s recent history, when thousands of young Kenyans took to the streets to protest against controversial government policies, taxation measures, and alleged police brutality.
The award organisers praised the journalist for using his platform to spotlight human rights concerns and ensure the stories of protesters were seen by the international community.
Following the award ceremony, Madowo announced that he would donate the entire Sh129,000 ($1,000) cash prize accompanying the honour to support a young Kenyan journalist focusing on grassroots and community issues.
Sharing the news on his social media platforms, Madowo expressed gratitude for the recognition while encouraging aspiring journalists to continue telling impactful stories from their communities.
“I was honored to accept my Human Rights Defender of the Year award today from Defenders Coalition. Ahsante sana,” he wrote.
“It comes with a $1,000 cash prize (Sh129,000). I will donate the full amount to a young journalist anywhere in Kenya who highlights issues in their community.”
He further called on Kenyans to nominate deserving journalists who may not always receive mainstream attention despite their important work.
“Please nominate yourself or someone in the comments and explain why,” he added.
Madowo has built a strong reputation both locally and internationally through his coverage of politics, governance, conflict, and human rights issues across Africa.
Before joining CNN International, he worked with major Kenyan media houses including NTV and the BBC, where he became known for his sharp political analysis, engaging reporting style, and fearless questioning of leaders.
Over the years, he has covered some of the continent’s biggest stories, including elections, protests, coups, humanitarian crises, and social justice movements.
His reporting during the 2024 anti-government protests in Kenya particularly stood out due to the dangerous and emotionally charged environment journalists faced while covering the demonstrations.
Human rights organisations accused security agencies of using excessive force against protesters, while journalists on the ground also reported intimidation, arrests, and harassment during the demonstrations.
Despite the risks, Madowo continued reporting live from protest scenes, often interviewing demonstrators and documenting the growing frustrations among young Kenyans.
The Defenders Coalition said the award recognised not only Madowo’s journalism but also the broader role of the media in safeguarding democracy and accountability.
