This archive report was first published on 27 June 2020.
On June 25, 2020, the US Department of State honored nine individuals, including Kenyan human rights defender Sophie Otiende, for their tireless efforts in the fight against human trafficking.
Ms. Otiende, founder of Awareness Against Human Trafficking in Kenya, was recognized for her instrumental role in developing victim assistance infrastructure, resources, and practices in Kenya to ensure human trafficking survivors receive the best possible care.
She was also commended for her efforts in raising human trafficking awareness among local communities in Kenya.
Speaking at the launch of the 2020 Trafficking in Persons Report (TIP) Heroes, Ms. Otiende called on all players in the sector to reject all forms of slavery in the 21st century.
“It took me 15 years from when I experienced trafficking personally to when I could properly define and name the crime,” she said.
“Looking at the body of work that we’ve done as a group – from prosecuting human trafficking cases to advocating for stronger victim protections or raising public consciousness of the crime – is a reminder that we all have the ability to change the world in our own small but powerful ways,” she added.
