Secure Shelter & Safe Houses

In the face of death threats, surveillance, and violence, a safe place can mean the difference between life and tragedy. WAJSIC’s secure safe houses offer confidential refuge for whistleblowers, journalists, and activists at the most dangerous moments of their lives.

Why Safe Houses Matter

Across West Africa and beyond, exposing corruption and injustice carries real risks: harassment, arrest, violence, and sometimes, assassination. Many truth-tellers have no secure place to hide, especially when threats become immediate and family safety is at stake. WAJSIC’s safe houses exist to fill this critical gap — providing protection when it’s needed most.

Confidential Locations and Security

Our safe houses are undisclosed and strategically located to reduce traceability and surveillance. Strict confidentiality is maintained:

Addresses are shared only on a need-to-know basis
Residents are briefed on digital hygiene and security protocols
Facilities include secure communication channels to reach legal teams or family safely

These measures protect residents — and also safeguard staff and other truth-tellers in the network.

Who Can Access Safe Houses?

WAJSIC evaluates each request individually. Priority is given to:

Journalists and investigative reporters facing imminent threats
Whistleblowers targeted after exposing corruption
Activists or human rights defenders threatened because of their work

The decision is based on risk assessment, urgency, and available capacity — not fame, media attention, or public profile.

Beyond Just Shelter

Safe houses are more than hidden locations. Residents also receive:

Trauma-informed psychological support
Risk and safety planning sessions
Legal aid consultation to handle ongoing threats
Digital security guidance to stay protected online

These services help truth-tellers not just survive, but prepare for what comes next.

Examples of Impact

Since founding, WAJSIC has sheltered:

Investigative journalists from across West Africa who uncovered government corruption

Whistleblowers who faced arrest and violent retaliation
Human rights defenders and their families needing urgent relocation

All stories remain confidential — but behind each number is a life saved.

Our Vision for the Future

WAJSIC aims to:

Increase the number of safe houses to handle rising demand
Establish partnerships in other African countries
Improve facilities to accommodate dependents and vulnerable groups

When speaking truth becomes dangerous, refuge must be ready. At WAJSIC, we make sure no whistleblower, journalist, or activist ever has to stand alone.