Lanji Ouko-Awori is a seasoned author, lawyer and a justice policy reform consultant. She is the founder of Crevit Mulier & Co., a legal bureau with a focus on gender Justice Policy Reform and Intervention through litigation. 

A lot has changed about my friend since we met in high school, least of all her bigger-than-life personality. We’ve somehow stayed neighbors over the years, from Nairobi to Leeds to NYC. I’ve seen Lanji blossom into the woman she manifested and worked ridiculously hard for, which is inspiring to say the least. When we meet nowadays, it’s usually over an over-due drink because she’s in between cities. She’s a global hustler like me, so we always have projects and storos for days.

In her latest book, “Our Broken Silence”, Lanji delivers an eye-opening account on the history of gender violence in kenya. The book also documents diary entries from victims, survivors, family members, nurses, doctors, lawyers, judges, activists, and many - a must read!

* Who is Lanji? 

Officially, Lanji is a seasoned author, lawyer & judiciary policy reform architect, passionate about gendered crime policy reform &  forensic justice review. A free-spirited, pan-Africanist with wild dreams for the continent. 

* Where did you grow up? (any fav memories of home)

I grew up everywhere! Early childhood days in Yaya Centre, Kileleshwa, then Lavington, but at the age of 13 years old, my father was transferred to various parts of the country including Meru, Nakuru & Malindi. My favourite memories were in Malindi. Away from everyone we knew, my family and I bonded so much and gelled in a way which I believe is unequivocally the strongest bond ever. Other than when my dad was at work, we spent every single moment together, because he was less busy compared to his life in Nairobi. Thank you for asking this question, the memories of walks on the beach and evening ice cream warmed my heart.

* Where are you living now? (And what do you like about it)

New York City! *eeeeek* 

Genuinely, I still pinch myself every morning while walking down the streets. My gossip girl fantasy! I looove the energy, the zest, the passion,  the life, the music, the foooood oh the food! I want to see every Broadway show, hit every jazz club, or live in every neighborhood. You never run out of new things to do, dishes to eat, places to visit, or people to meet.

* What inspired you to write your (third) book, Our Broken Silence? 

What started as a postgrad dissertation at the university of Chester in 2017 has transformed into our most fulfilling project yet. Academic and institutional writing barely scratch the surface of issues at grassroot level. While writing the dissertation and researching at a renowned hospital in Nairobi, I noticed a distinct gap in sexual and gender-based violence intervention. As academics we speak FOR survivors not WITH survivors…we disseminate the solutions and challenges in third person which more often than not inevitably distort  the weight and magnitude of these prevalent issues. 

By listening to doctors, nurses and a few survivors; it prompted me to reevaluate my medium and method of redress. Why not let those who experience the infringement of their rights, give the world firsthand , a panoramic viewpoint. 

* How has writing and publishing the book impacted you? (challenges, successes)

To write about trauma, is to trigger unresolved or unrecognized trauma. The skeletons in my closet gradually began to pop out which inadvertently pushed me to address my past and attempt to break my own silence. A painful, ongoing journey. 

It additionally illuminated the misconception of the word “gender” in gender-based violence. A term which is automatically assumed to mean violence against women, which then usually explains the negative connotation and derogatory comments  such as “ what about the boy child” and “not all men”. 

* How was it working with your co-writers on such a vulnerable book? What was the roughest moment? 

Brilliant! Her worldview is one of liberation. She’s an inspiring woman, on a tireless quest for a better Africa and a better world. She has fought for the rights of women and survivors not only in Kenya, but throughout the continent. Working with Adelle was a joy, filled with laughter, lots of tea & wine. 

* What positive impact do you hope to achieve with your work and projects? Including Crevit Mulier & Co.

Well, I am extremely passionate about constitutional review and law reform in not only Kenya, but in Africa. How it shapes and molds us as a people; socially, economically, and politically. For the past eight years, I’ve successfully ran the legal bureau; Crevit Mulier & Co.  

An unconventional legal bureau enhancing access to justice by using legal multi-disciplinary procedures and a rigorous evidence-based approach, leveraging on technology to transform Africa’s contemporary legal conversations. 

My hope; is to one day celebrate “access to justice” as a basic principle enjoyed by each and every citizen across the country, not just by the privileged few. 

* Who is your favorite Kenyan author?

 Marjorie Oludhe Macgoye
* What’s your fave and worst memory of Nairobi?

Being young, in my 20s! Both, my best and worst memories. The vibrance and magic of the city. Running, young, wild, and free, with no reservations or precaution. A whirlwind of beautiful experiences, adventures, and escapades, but as you may imagine, a life of no precaution naturally and inevitably, the challenges leave a trail of footprints. My worst being, hoping to grow old with people, but as you grow up, you grow apart. Coming to terms with the cycle of friendship was a bitter pill to swallow. 

* What’s your favorite Kenyan food?

Ugali!! Ugali for breakfast, lunch or dinner! Served with beef, chicken, sukumawiki or air haha!