CNN Africa Correspondent Larry Madowo has selected Daniel Musyoka, co-founder of Equitable Futures Think Tank, as the recipient of his Human Rights Defender of the Year Award 2025 donation.
Journalist Madowo was named Human Rights Defender of the Year, an award that comes with a cash prize of $1,000 (about Sh129,000).
Announcing the recognition, Madowo said he would donate the entire amount to support a young journalist in Kenya who highlights community issues.
Musyoka will use the funds to support his work in advancing the rights of persons with disabilities in Kenya.
Musyoka is recognised for his advocacy through the Equitable Futures Think Tank, where he focuses on promoting inclusion and protecting the rights of persons with disabilities.
The initiative is aimed at strengthening grassroots human rights work, particularly among young advocates pushing for policy and social change in vulnerable communities.
According to Defenders Coalition, Daniel Musyoka is a dedicated advocate and champion for disability inclusion in Kenya, particularly inclusion of the deaf community.
He is a passionate sign language interpreter, and he is also the co-founder of Equitable Futures Think Tank, which focuses on advancing disability mainstreaming, bridging communication gaps, and promoting inclusive practices across various sectors.
In his five years working with Disabled Persons Organisations (DPOs), he has been able to make significant contributions through the creative use of social media and incorporating acting and storytelling, which has helped in breaking down complex information and making it more accessible to deaf audiences.
Musyoka’s journey began in 2016 as a sign language interpreter, relaying breaking news and current affairs to the deaf community.
This sparked his interest in advocating for inclusive communication, using his skills to sensitise deaf individuals on their rights, available opportunities, and civic issues, ensuring that no one is left behind due to communication barriers.
His work is rooted in a deep commitment to equality, accessibility and the empowerment of persons with disabilities.
Through the Meru Deaf Women Empowerment Self-Help Group, where he is a founder, he has been able to support deaf women in Meru County through social and economic empowerment.
The group has become a safe space for women to learn, grow, and advocate for their rights, reflecting Musyoka’s belief in community-led change.
Additionally, he has helped deaf individuals join the Nyota Program, which has provided opportunities to access education and personal development, mentoring numerous young people, guiding them to become professionals and utilise digital platforms to make a living.
Focusing on language inclusion, accessibility, and representation of PWDs, Musyoka has reached over 1500 deaf youth, providing information on safety, health, and civic education.
Despite facing challenges such as limited resources, the risk to personal safety, and policy neglect, he has been steadfast in advocating for the rights of PWDs through digital advocacy, community mobilisation, direct interpretation, and human rights education through content creation.