human rights 15 August 2026 Nile Post
Ugandan Activist Kenneth Oloka Honored with 'Unsung Hero' Award in Nairobi
Ugandan migrant rights advocate Kenneth Oloka has received the 'Unsung Hero Award' at the Wezesha Continental Impact Awards in Nairobi for over a decade of work promoting safer labor migration and protecting migrant workers. Source: https://nilepost.co.ug/news/363792/ugandan-migrant-rights-advocate-kenneth-oloka-wins-unsung-hero-award-in-nairobi
Kenneth Oloka, a prominent Ugandan advocate for migrant rights, has been recognized with the ‘Unsung Hero Award’ at the Wezesha Continental Impact Awards 2026, held in Nairobi, Kenya. The award celebrates individuals whose impactful work often operates away from public attention.
Oloka, associated with Kyeyo Initiative Uganda, was honored for his extensive efforts over the past decade in championing safer labor migration, enhancing worker protections, and combating human trafficking. His advocacy spans across Ugandans and other African migrants seeking opportunities both within the continent and abroad.
“It is a real observation, a track record, acknowledgement and appreciation of my struggles in promoting the rights and welfare of migrant workers over the years,” Oloka stated upon receiving the award, thanking the Wezesha Initiative for their recognition.
His work involves collaborating with various stakeholders, including governments, media, and civil society organizations, to raise awareness about legal migration routes and to advocate for improved working conditions. A significant focus of his advocacy has been on protecting individuals from exploitation by unscrupulous recruitment agencies and addressing the information gaps that often lead vulnerable people into trafficking situations.
Oloka emphasized that progress in labor migration requires broad cooperation and dedicated the award to migrant workers and all those involved in protecting them. He stressed the ongoing need for dignity, contracts, and protection for all migrant workers.
The Wezesha Continental Impact Awards aim to highlight contributions to social change across Africa, with this year’s event specifically focusing on dignity, safety, and opportunity for workers. The ceremony brought together awardees, policymakers, and development partners to discuss critical issues surrounding migration and worker protection.