Boniface Mwangi: A Voice for Truth & Justice in Kenya

Summary: Boniface Mwangi's journey from photojournalist to fearless political activist in Kenya is a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice and equality. Known for his bold stance against corruption and social injustice, Mwangi has become a powerful voice for change in a country where fighting corruption often means risking one's life. Despite facing attacks, death threats, and even an explosion at his home, Mwangi stands firm in his pursuit of truth and justice. His courage and dedication continue to inspire a new generation of activists in Kenya, proving that one person's bravery can indeed make a significant impact.

Profile: Boniface Mwangi's journey from photojournalist to fearless political activist in Kenya is a testament to his unwavering commitment to social justice and equality. Known for his bold and courageous stance against corruption and social injustice, Mwangi has become a powerful voice for social change in Kenya. In a country where fighting corruption almost equates to a death sentence, Boniface has continuously laid his life on the line. He has been attacked, sent death threats, had his house blasted with explosions, and endured many more harrowing experiences. But Boniface has always stood strong for truth. As he always says, he speaks the language of courage fluently. If indeed courage had a face, Boniface Mwangi would be it!

He began his activism during the 2007-2008 post-election violence in Kenya. As a photojournalist, he captured harrowing images that exposed the brutal reality of the conflict, garnering international attention. Witnessing the violence and suffering firsthand profoundly affected him, igniting a passion for activism that would shape his future endeavors. Determined to make a difference, Mwangi founded Picha Mtaani, a traveling photo exhibition aimed at promoting reconciliation and healing in communities affected by the post-election violence. His powerful images and compelling storytelling fostered dialogue and understanding, helping to bridge the divides that had torn the country apart.

Boniface's activism soon extended beyond photography. In 2012, he launched PAWA254, a collaborative space for artists and activists to work together on social justice initiatives. PAWA254 has since become a hub for creative activism, empowering young Kenyans to use art and media to challenge the status quo and advocate for change.

Despite facing numerous threats and intimidation, Mwangi has remained undeterred in his fight against corruption and impunity. In 2009, during a protest against government corruption, he was brutally assaulted by police officers, an incident that only strengthened his resolve. With his stance against corruption, his life is constantly under threat and has survived death many times. And even though he is a husband and a father to three kids, Boniface keeps on giving himself to this country over and over again. When random people face injustices in Kenya, they reach out to him for support and help. He is always out there helping people who are being harassed by the system or being arrested unfairly.

In 2017, Boniface took his activism to the political arena by running for a parliamentary seat in Starehe constituency in Nairobi. Although he did not win, his campaign demonstrated the power of grassroots activism. Boniface continues to use his platform to hold leaders accountable and advocate for the rights of ordinary Kenyans.

Boniface’s passion for good leadership and accountability has been instrumental in the recent fight against the Finance Bill 2024, which proposed tax increases that would burden the already struggling Kenyan citizens. Through relentless advocacy, public demonstrations, and strategic use of social media, Boniface has been at the forefront of opposing the bill. Even though the peaceful demonstrations were infiltrated by sponsored criminals, the pressure from Kenyan citizens led to the government withdrawing the contentious bill, showcasing the power of collective action and the impact of sustained activism.

Thank you so much, Boniface, for your relentless pursuit of justice despite the dangers you face every day. Thank you for loving this country, Kenya, so much that you are always putting your life on the line for it. Thank you for showing Kenya what courage and boldness look like and what they can do. Your efforts, Boniface, count and will keep on counting for generations to come. Your courage continues to inspire and mobilize a new generation of activists in Kenya, proving that one person's courage and dedication can indeed make a significant impact.

We honor and celebrate you, Boniface Mwangi, for sticking your neck out for the public good! You are a true Kenyan hero! May you be blessed with so many healthy and wealthy years, that you may live to witness the fruits of your labour.

To be posted on

Bridges of Peace Initiatives https://bpi.or.ke/

and

Giraffe Heroes Kenya https://www.giraffe.org/global/kenya