Job Description
SOKIFY PRESENTS: Africa Division Intern Opportunity at Human Rights Watch
Ready to make a real difference in human rights? Human Rights Watch is looking for an Africa Division Intern to join their Nairobi-based team and contribute to meaningful research and advocacy work across East Africa.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: 27 August 2026
ABOUT THE ROLE
The Africa Division of Human Rights Watch is recruiting a dedicated intern to support critical human rights research and advocacy initiatives in Uganda and Tanzania. Based in Nairobi, this part-time internship is perfect for students and recent graduates who want hands-on experience in international human rights work while maintaining flexibility around your academic or personal commitments.
WHAT YOU'LL DO
Your responsibilities will span several key areas. You'll conduct detailed legal and background research on human rights issues affecting Uganda and Tanzania, monitoring news media from these countries and compiling relevant reports. When needed, you'll provide translation support for documents in Swahili. You'll also handle administrative duties including attending internal meetings, taking notes, and recording minutes. Beyond these core tasks, you'll contribute to special projects aligned with your interests and skill set.
WHAT YOU'LL GAIN
This internship goes beyond routine tasks. You'll have access to lectures, training sessions, workshops, and special events centered on human rights issues. The position offers invaluable networking opportunities with HRW staff, volunteers, and representatives from international organizations, allowing you to bridge academic knowledge with real-world application and build your professional network.
WHO WE'RE LOOKING FOR
You should be currently enrolled in an undergraduate or graduate program, or a recent graduate from an accredited institution. Essential qualities include strong organizational skills, self-motivation, and meticulous attention to detail. A genuine passion for human rights is crucial, alongside professional Swahili reading and writing abilities. Knowledge of indigenous Ugandan languages strengthens your candidacy. You'll need solid computer skills covering Microsoft Office, Excel, and internet research tools, plus valid legal work authorization in Kenya for the internship duration.
COMPENSATION
Selected interns receive a gross monthly stipend of KES 30,000, calculated pro-rata based on actual hours worked. This support helps offset living expenses during your internship. Depending on your educational institution's policies, this position may also qualify for academic credit.
HOW TO APPLY
Submit your complete application through our online job portal with the following documents in PDF format: your CV or resume, a letter of interest or cover letter, and a brief unedited writing sample. Please note that only complete applications will be reviewed, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. For technical support, reach out to internships@hrw.org.
COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY AND INCLUSION
Human Rights Watch celebrates diversity and welcomes applications from candidates of all backgrounds. We are committed to equal opportunity employment and do not discriminate based on disability, age, gender identity, national origin, race, religion, sexual orientation, or criminal record. Our strength lies in the rich diversity of perspectives, cultures, and experiences our team brings to our mission.
ABOUT HUMAN RIGHTS WATCH
Human Rights Watch is an internationally recognized organization dedicated to monitoring and advancing human rights globally. Through rigorous investigations, timely reporting, and strategic campaigns, HRW holds governments and international bodies accountable while driving meaningful policy and practice changes worldwide.