The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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Journalist Larry Madowo has been honoured as Human Rights Defender of the Year, an award that includes a $1,000 (approximately Sh129,000) cash prize.
Upon receiving the recognition, Madowo announced that he would donate the full amount to a young Kenyan journalist who focuses on reporting community issues.
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He said the funds would go towards empowering emerging reporters who are dedicated to telling impactful stories at the grassroots level.
“I was honored to accept my Human Rights Defender of the Year award today. Ahsante. It comes with a $1,000 cash prize (Ksh129,000). I will donate it to a young journalist anywhere in Kenya who highlights issues in the community,” he said.
He further encouraged members of the public to nominate themselves or other deserving journalists for consideration.
Madowo, who has built a strong international journalism career, is widely recognised for his coverage of African affairs, governance, human rights, and social justice.
Currently working with CNN, he has previously reported for BBC, CNBC Africa, NTV Kenya, and KTN, covering major stories on media freedom, accountability, and governance.
Recently, he has drawn attention for criticising the Tanzanian government over its restrictions on independent reporting, raising concerns about press freedom and transparency.
He also reported being targeted by hired attackers while covering anti-government protests in Kenya, highlighting the risks journalists face in the field.
The Defenders Coalition said the award recognised the breadth and depth of his human rights reporting.
The jury noted that human rights advocacy extends beyond legal and activist spaces into journalism, where bearing witness plays a key role in defending democratic space.
They added that Madowo’s reporting often intersects with issues such as shrinking civic space and the misuse of digital platforms to suppress dissent.
In today’s environment, where journalists face both physical threats and online attacks, his presence during key protests has helped bring visibility to unfolding events.
Madowo has frequently faced criticism from pro-government bloggers and political figures over his coverage of protests in Kenya and the region.
