RIACO Story

Our Story

Mob justice. Two words that evoke images of fear, violence, and the tragic loss of innocent lives. In many communities across Kenya, the rule of law is often replaced by the swift and brutal force of the mob, leaving families shattered and communities scarred.

Witnessing these injustices firsthand, a group of concerned citizens came together, driven by a shared belief in justice and human dignity. They recognized the urgent need for an organization dedicated to protecting the rights of individuals and promoting a culture of peace. And so, in 2024, RIACO was born.

From humble beginnings, RIACO has grown into a leading voice against mob justice in Kenya. We began with small steps: community outreach programs to educate people about the dangers of mob violence, providing pro bono legal aid to victims, and advocating for policy reforms to strengthen the rule of law.

The fight against mob justice is an ongoing Journey. But with unwavering commitment, community support, and a shared belief in justice, we can build a Kenya where every life is valued, and every individual has the right to a safe and just future-where we all stand for Justice, Not Mob Rule.

USE 15
VALUES

Our Core Values

RIACO’s values are born from a deep understanding of the challenges faced by communities grappling with injustice and violence. Our journey began with a commitment to address the root causes of societal discord, informed by years of working alongside those most affected. Observing the consequences of inequality, we recognized the need to promote fairness and inclusion as pillars of sustainable change. Through engagement with diverse communities, we witnessed the transformative power of collective action and the importance of fostering environments where respect for one another prevails. These experiences shaped our belief in empowering individuals and groups to lead change from within. The scars left by violence and mob justice reinforced our determination to advocate for peaceful resolutions and proactive approaches to conflict.

Human Dignity and Rights:

RIACO upholds the inherent dignity and worth of every human being and champions the protection and promotion of human rights for all.

Justice and Equality:

RIACO strives for a just and equitable society where everyone has equal access to justice, regardless of their social, economic, or cultural background.

Peace and Non Violence:

RIACO promotes peaceful conflict resolution and advocates for a society free from violence, including mob justice.

Community Empowerment:

RIACO empowers communities to take an active role in preventing mob justice and promoting a culture of peace and respect.

Integrity and Transparency:

RIACO conducts its work with integrity and transparency, maintaining the highest ethical standards in all its activities.

Approach

Our Approach

Over time, RIACO’s approach stems from the urgent need to combat mob violence and its devastating impact. By empowering communities, providing legal aid, advocating reforms, and fostering partnerships, we address root causes, protect victims, and promote sustainable solutions for a peaceful and just society.

Empower communities

Through workshops, seminars, and community dialogues, we empower communities to understand their rights, resolve conflicts peacefully, and stand against the tide of mob violence.

Pro bono legal support

We provide free legal aid and representation to countless victims of mob justice, ensuring they receive fair treatment and access to justice.

Advocate for systemic Reform

We tirelessly advocate for legislative reforms that strengthen penalties for mob violence, improve protections for victims, and promote a more just and equitable society.

Community Partnerships

Establish community watch groups and partnerships with local leaders to prevent mob justice incidents through proactive intervention and mediation.

Crisis Response Teams

Set up crisis response teams to provide immediate assistance to victims of mob justice, including medical care, shelter, and psychological support.

Training

We train law enforcement officers, judicial personnel, and community leaders on best practices for preventing and responding to mob justice.

Meet The Team 

Board of Directors

Susan Achia
Susan Justine Achia
Director, Monitoring and Evaluation
Biography
Susan's Biography

Susan Justine Achia.

Dr. [First Name] [Last Name], [Degree] is a [Nationality] academic, lawyer/advocate. They are currently the [Position] and [Role] at [Institution]. They have also taught at [Institution 1], [Institution 2], and [Institution 3]. In [Month, Year], they graduated from [University] Law School’s [Center or Department] with a [Degree] thesis focusing on [Research Topic]. They are also an Advocate of High Court of [Country] and a former Legal Officer with the [Organization] at the [Location]. They have also worked for the [Organization 1] at [Location 1], [Organization 2] at [Location 2], [Organization 3] and the [National Institution]. Since [Year], they have been a trainer for the [Course or Program] in [Location 1] and [Location 2].

Gabriel
Gabriel Ogweyo
Director, Advocacy and Awareness
Biography
Gabriel's Biography

Gabriel Ogweyo.

Dr. [First Name] [Last Name], [Degree] is a [Nationality] academic, lawyer/advocate. They are currently the [Position] and [Role] at [Institution]. They have also taught at [Institution 1], [Institution 2], and [Institution 3]. In [Month, Year], they graduated from [University] Law School’s [Center or Department] with a [Degree] thesis focusing on [Research Topic]. They are also an Advocate of High Court of [Country] and a former Legal Officer with the [Organization] at the [Location]. They have also worked for the [Organization 1] at [Location 1], [Organization 2] at [Location 2], [Organization 3] and the [National Institution]. Since [Year], they have been a trainer for the [Course or Program] in [Location 1] and [Location 2].

manuelw
Manuel Wepukhulu
Director
Biography
Biography

Manuel Wepukhulu.

Dr. [First Name] [Last Name], [Degree] is a [Nationality] academic, lawyer/advocate. They are currently the [Position] and [Role] at [Institution]. They have also taught at [Institution 1], [Institution 2], and [Institution 3]. In [Month, Year], they graduated from [University] Law School’s [Center or Department] with a [Degree] thesis focusing on [Research Topic]. They are also an Advocate of High Court of [Country] and a former Legal Officer with the [Organization] at the [Location]. They have also worked for the [Organization 1] at [Location 1], [Organization 2] at [Location 2], [Organization 3] and the [National Institution]. Since [Year], they have been a trainer for the [Course or Program] in [Location 1] and [Location 2].

Onyango
George Onyango
Director, Finance
Biography
Biography

George Onyango

Dr. [First Name] [Last Name], [Degree] is a [Nationality] academic, lawyer/advocate. They are currently the [Position] and [Role] at [Institution]. They have also taught at [Institution 1], [Institution 2], and [Institution 3]. In [Month, Year], they graduated from [University] Law School’s [Center or Department] with a [Degree] thesis focusing on [Research Topic]. They are also an Advocate of High Court of [Country] and a former Legal Officer with the [Organization] at the [Location]. They have also worked for the [Organization 1] at [Location 1], [Organization 2] at [Location 2], [Organization 3] and the [National Institution]. Since [Year], they have been a trainer for the [Course or Program] in [Location 1] and [Location 2].

pius
Pius kimutai
Director
Biography
Pius Kimutai

Pius Kimutai is a dedicated high-school teacher specializing in Chemistry and Physics. Passionate about inspiring young minds, he actively promotes STEM education and encourages students to pursue scientific curiosity and excellence. Beyond the classroom, Pius is an advocate for social justice, working with Rights in Action Coalition (RIACO) to combat mob justice in Kisumu, Homabay, Kisii, and Vihiga Counties. He believes in fostering a culture of fairness, accountability, and respect for the rule of law within communities. His goal is to empower students with critical thinking skills and practical knowledge while contributing to a more just and equitable society.

Board of Advisors

Wamwara
Dr. J.J. Wamwara
Board of Advisor
Biography
Biography

Dr. J.J. Wamwara

Dr. John Joseph WAMWARA, SJD is an Kenyan academic, lawyer/advocate. He is currently the Dean and Senior Lecturer at Moi University School of Law. He has also taught at the University of Nairobi School of Law, Catholic University of Eastern Africa, and Strathmore University. In May 2019, he graduated from Emory University Law School’s Center for the Study of Law and Religion with Doctor of Juridical Sciences (SJD) thesis focusing on legal and religious arguments for coexistence of monogamy and polygamy. He is also an Advocate of High Court of Kenya; and former Legal Officer with the ICRC at the Nairobi Regional Delegation. He has also worked for the International Criminal Court at The Hague, International Organization for Migration (Geneva), Kenya National Commission on Human Rights and the Kenyan Parliament. Since 2014 he has been a trainer for the Spain – Netherlands led Gender – Perspectives in Peace Support Operations Courses in Nairobi and Madrid.

Dr. Wamwara also graduated with LL.M in Law and Religion (Summa Cum Laude) from Emory University Law School; with an Advanced LL.M in International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights, Geneva Academy of International Humanitarian Law and Human Rights (Joint Centre of University of Geneva and Graduate Institute of International and Development Studies). He also has Post-Graduate Diploma in Law from Kenya School of Law, Bachelor of Laws (LL. B Hons) from the University of Nairobi, and a Certificate in International Criminal Law from the International Law Institute – African Centre for Legal Excellence. He has research interests/projects/ or publications in Public International Law, International Humanitarian Law, Law & Religion, Human Rights, African Traditional Culture and Religion, Indigenous People’s Rights, Family Law, Law & Political Philosophy, Comparative Constitutional Law, and Environmental Law.

Notable Honors and Awards: 8th CB Madam Prize for Commitment and Outstanding Scholarly Contribution To Constitutionalism and the Rule of Law in Kenya (2020, Eliza Ellison Prize for Leadership in Law and Religion (2019), 1ST Herman Dooyeweerd Fellowship in Law and Religion (Emory, 2018), Restoring Religious Freedom Graduate Scholarship (Emory, 2017) and Hans Wilsdorf (Rolex) Foundation Scholarship & Award (Geneva, 2012).

callen
Mrs. Callen B. Masaka, DCSC
Board of Advisor
Biography
Biography

Mrs. Callen B. Masaka, DCSC

Advocate of the High Court of Kenya | Deputy Chief State Counsel

Callen B. Masaka is a highly accomplished legal professional with 24 years of experience in both public and private sectors. As the Deputy Chief State Counsel in the Office of the Attorney General, she leads the Litigation Department and oversees administrative duties. Previously, she served at the National Land Commission and the Ministry of Labor, contributing significantly to land reform and child protection policies.

A passionate advocate for social justice, Callen has championed the rights of vulnerable groups through pro bono legal services and initiatives focused on youth empowerment and the welfare of the boy child. Her leadership extends beyond legal practice, with a focus on promoting alternative justice systems and fostering a litigation-free society. A Certified Public Secretary and a Certified Mediator, Callen is recognized for her professional excellence, strong leadership, and commitment to making a positive impact on society.

Jeff
Mr. Jeff Oganga Katieno
Board of Advisor
Biography
Biography

Mr. Jeff Oganga Katieno

In addition to having an MBA from Baraton University and an undergraduate degree in accounting from Maseno University, Jeff is a certified public accountant and a member of ICPAK. He has previously worked at PKF-East Africa as an auditor and at Baraton University as an accountant.

Jeff has also had a stint in academia, having taught in the school of business at Baraton University for 5 years. He is now a full-time writer.

sheavatar
Dr. Editah Hadassah
Board of Advisor
Biography
Biography

Dr. Editah Hadassah

Dr. [First Name] [Last Name], [Degree] is a [Nationality] academic, lawyer/advocate. They are currently the [Position] and [Role] at [Institution]. They have also taught at [Institution 1], [Institution 2], and [Institution 3]. In [Month, Year], they graduated from [University] Law School’s [Center or Department] with a [Degree] thesis focusing on [Research Topic]. They are also an Advocate of High Court of [Country] and a former Legal Officer with the [Organization] at the [Location]. They have also worked for the [Organization 1] at [Location 1], [Organization 2] at [Location 2], [Organization 3] and the [National Institution]. Since [Year], they have been a trainer for the [Course or Program] in [Location 1] and [Location 2].

Catherine
Dr. Catherine K. Mimiukha
Board of Advisor
Biography
Biography

Dr. Catherine K. Muniukha

 She is a Senior Lecturer in the Department of Psychology, Counseling and Educational Foundation in the Faculty of Education and Community Studies at Egerton University, Kenya. She holds a Master Of Education Degree in Guidance and Counseling and a PhD degree in Educational Research and Evaluation. Catherine has a wealth of experience in program and curriculum design, implementation and evaluation. She also has extensive experience in training individuals and groups in topical areas that include stress management, pedagogy, and skill identification. She has published extensively and participated in research projects. She has also participated in mentorship and community outreach activities, specifically working with youth, children and communities.


Pr Kenneth
Pr. Kenneth Oketch Maena
Board of Advisor
Biography
Biography

Mrs. Esther Nyamoko Angwenyi

Esther Nyamoko Angwenyi is a re-known academic and development specialist with a strong background in teaching, research, and program leadership. She has held key roles at the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, including Lecturer, Chair of the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Development Officer, and Principal of Baraton International School. Currently a PhD candidate in Development Studies at Moi University, she also holds a Master’s degree in International Development from Andrews University (USA) and a Bachelor’s degree in English from UEAB. Esther has collaborated widely with local and international organizations such as the Kenya Red Cross Society, where she served as Nandi County Chairperson, leading initiatives in governance, disaster preparedness, gender advocacy, and community empowerment. A certified Environmental Impact Assessment and Audit Associate, she also serves on the Council of Dedan Kimathi University of Science and Technology. Dedicated to advancing human rights, conflict resolution, and gender equity, Esther integrates her academic knowledge with active community engagement, mentor-ship, and advocacy to foster sustainable social transformation.

 

Angwenyi 2
Mrs. Esther Nyamoko Angwenyi
Board of Advisor
Biography
Biography

Mrs. Esther Nyamoko Angwenyi

Esther Nyamoko Angwenyi is a re-known academic and development specialist with a strong background in teaching, research, and program leadership. She has held key roles at the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton, including Lecturer, Chair of the Department of Humanities and Social Sciences, Development Officer, and Principal of Baraton International School. Currently a PhD candidate in Development Studies at Moi University, she also holds a Master’s degree in International Development from Andrews University (USA) and a Bachelor’s degree in English from UEAB. Esther has collaborated widely with local and international organizations such as the Kenya Red Cross Society, where she served as Nandi County Chairperson, leading initiatives in governance, disaster preparedness, gender advocacy, and community empowerment. A certified Environmental Impact Assessment and Audit Associate, she also serves on the Council of Dedan Kimathi University of Science and Technology. Dedicated to advancing human rights, conflict resolution, and gender equity, Esther integrates her academic knowledge with active community engagement, mentor-ship, and advocacy to foster sustainable social transformation.

 

 The Secretariat

edgar
Edgar Omondi Abuto
Chief Executive officer
Biography
Biography

Edgar Omondi Abuto

Edgar Abuto is a visionary leader and dedicated advocate for human rights. As the Founder and CEO of RIACO, an organization committed to championing the rights of individuals subjected to mob justice, he brings a unique blend of academic expertise and humanitarian passion to the fight against social injustices.

In addition to his leadership at RIACO, Mr. Abuto serves as a Chemistry Lecturer at one of the nation’s leading private universities.

Mr. Abuto's work with RIACO reflects his deep commitment to social justice and equity. His belief in science as a tool for societal transformation underpins RIACO’s approach, emphasizing data collection, research, and public education campaigns to foster awareness and inspire change.

A staunch humanitarian, Mr. Abuto's leadership is guided by the principle that justice must be accessible to all, regardless of social or economic status. Through RIACO, he aims to create a society where the rule of law prevails and human dignity is upheld, ensuring that victims of mob justice are not only protected but empowered to rebuild their lives.

Under his stewardship, RIACO is poised to become a beacon of hope for communities, advocating for systemic reforms and cultivating a culture of accountability, empathy, and respect for human rights.

Odhiambo Fredrick
Fredrick Omondi Odhiambo
Projects Coordinator
Biography
Biography

Fredrick Omondi Odhiambo

Mr. Odhiambo is a self driven and results-oriented chemist with a Bachelor of Science in Chemistry from the University of Eastern Africa, Baraton. His academic journey fostered a strong foundation in scientific principles, analytical thinking, and a meticulous approach to research and experimentation.

Growing up in a region where mob violence was unfortunately prevalent, he witnessed firsthand the devastating consequences of this practice. These experiences instilled in him a deep commitment to promoting justice and upholding the rule of law. He is passionate about creating a society where every individual's rights and dignity are respected.

Tom Abuto
Dr. Tom Abuto
Community Outreach and Education Manager
Biography
Biography

Dr. Tom Abuto 

Dr. [First Name] [Last Name], [Degree] is a [Nationality] academic, lawyer/advocate. They are currently the [Position] and [Role] at [Institution]. They have also taught at [Institution 1], [Institution 2], and [Institution 3]. In [Month, Year], they graduated from [University] Law School’s [Center or Department] with a [Degree] thesis focusing on [Research Topic]. They are also an Advocate of High Court of [Country] and a former Legal Officer with the [Organization] at the [Location]. They have also worked for the [Organization 1] at [Location 1], [Organization 2] at [Location 2], [Organization 3] and the [National Institution]. Since [Year], they have been a trainer for the [Course or Program] in [Location 1] and [Location 2].

dmargaret
Dolter Margaret
Victim support and Rehabilitation Officer
Biography
Biography

Dolter Margaret

Dolter Margaret is a recent nursing graduate who is eager to make a difference by addressing the critical issue of mob justice. She believes that everyone deserves to have their rights respected and protected. By engaging with local organizations, she aims to create awareness and foster discussions that empower individuals to stand up against violence and injustice.

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Joseph Wachira
Social media and digital advocacy Manager.
Biography
Biography

Joseph Wachira 

Mr Joseph Wachira Ngunjiri is an Electrical and Electronics Technologist, a telecommunications graduate from the University of Eastern Africa,Baraton. Currently he is tasked with the reponsibilities of tutoring and instructing the Computing and software based labs.He is also engaged in the University Magazine as the Communications Director among other roles.

Using his high sense of humor, and eloquence in networking with people easily has made him join many forums.His technical background on telecommunications and social media management is an added advantage.

Having worked with a group who view mob justice as societal justice; it poses the need to create self awareness and more so the need to first assess the situation,identify the one on the wrong before “kuchukua sheria mkononi”.Its my strongest believe that “No matter the situation, everyone deserves to be heard and corrected in the most human way possible.”

MILDRED RIACO
Mildred Auma. 
Administration and Human Resource Manager
Biography
Biography

Mildred V.

Mildred's Bio