A research project by THRAETS (Kenya), in collaboration with Omega, examines the origins, suppliers, and deployment of less-lethal weapons used by Kenyan authorities, with a focus on Israeli-manufactured tear gas grenades and other less lethal weapons and munitions. Using open-source research, this report traces the supply chain of these weapons, highlights their human rights impact, and questions the accountability of the actors involved.
In June and July 2024, East Africa experienced a wave of protests, notably in Kenya, where large scale youth-led demonstrations erupted in response to the contentious Finance Bill 2024. The demonstrations were part of a broader effort to pressure President William Ruto, with activist groups staging protests every Tuesday and Thursday, calling for his resignation due to the government’s fiscal policies and handling of the economic crisis.