Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery Program 2025 for lawyers based in sub-Saharan Africa (Fully Funded to Nairobi, Kenya)

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Application Deadline: July 31st, 2026

Applications are now open for the 2026 Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery. Media Defence, The Kennedy Human Rights Center, and Vuka invite applications from lawyers who work and live in Sub-Saharan Africa to participate in an upcoming litigation surgery, a workshop focused on advancing the protection of human rights through strategic litigation. The program will explore key issues relating to freedom of expression, freedom of assembly and association, and the protection of human rights defenders.  

Participants will learn from specialists, strengthen their understanding of relevant legal frameworks and strategic litigation approaches, and take part in practical sessions where they present and discuss cases they are working on with peers and specialists. The litigation surgery will focus on developing effective litigation strategies, strengthening case preparation, and exploring the use of national, regional, and international mechanisms to address violations of these rights. 

Program Details

• The litigation surgery will take place in-person, from October 2^nd – 4^th, 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya. 
• This will feature expert-led sessions, case-based discussions, and peer learning activities.
• A maximum of 15 participants will be selected.  

Eligibility Criteria 

Applicants should: 

Benefits

For successful applicants, Media Defence will provide: 

• Return travel from your home country to Nairobi, Kenya. 
• Accommodation for the day before and the duration of the litigation surgery. 
• Expenses for travel to and from the airport in your home country and Nairobi, Kenya. 
• Reimbursement for visa costs (please note that participants will be responsible for arranging and covering any visa requirements necessary for their participation). 
• A per diem, the rate is to be determined, for travel days as well as the duration of the litigation surgery and conference. 

How to apply 

Please complete the online application or send the completed application form to [email protected]. 

The deadline for applications is July 31^st, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and we may close the call early if we receive a high volume of submissions. 

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted shortly after the deadline. 

For More Information:

Visit the Official Webpage of the Media Defence Sub-Saharan Africa Litigation Surgery