Nairobi, 28th November 2024
Nairobi County joined the global campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at the Ruben Centre Grounds, Mukuru kwa Ruben. This year’s theme, “Towards Beijing +30: United to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” underscores the ongoing need for collaborative efforts to combat violence against women and girls.
Speaking at the campaign launch, County Executive for Inclusivity, Public Participation, and Customer Service, Rosemary Kariuki, emphasized the urgent need to end GBV, citing its detrimental impact on women in leadership, advocacy, and public life.
“As we commemorate this global initiative launched in 1991, we are reminded of the alarming rise in femicide and other forms of violence against women and girls. These atrocities demand immediate action,” said Kariuki.
She outlined six key areas of focus to address the crisis such as prevention, accountability, support for survivors, policy development, engaging men and boys and empowering local leaders to drive grassroots change.
“Ending GBV requires collective action. Together, we can create a future where women and girls live free from violence and fear,” she stated.
Nairobi Woman Representative, Esther Passaris, highlighted the harsh realities of GBV in Kenya.
“In the last three months alone, 97 women have been brutally killed. GBV affects women across all ages, with cases reported involving victims as young as five months and as old as 85 years,” she said, emphasizing the need to expedite GBV cases in the judiciary.
Maryam Dahir, County Chief Officer for Gender and Inclusivity, reaffirmed Nairobi County’s commitment to combating GBV. She noted the establishment of safe houses for survivors and condemned the rising cases of femicide. “Let’s remain vigilant, support survivors, and report cases. Together, we can eliminate GBV,” she urged.
Gilbert Kiptanui from the Department of Refugee Services highlighted that GBV is a major driver of forced migration, calling for inclusive approaches to justice and survivor support.
Similarly, UNHCR Protection Officer Michele Apala advocated for stricter laws, the inclusion of refugees in response mechanisms, and collective community-driven solutions.
Elizabeth Gichohi of FIDA stressed the need for survivor-centered referral mechanisms and better resource allocation to enforce GBV laws. “An inclusive approach is key to creating sustainable solutions,” she remarked.
Deputy County Commissioner for Embakasi, Eric Wamulevu, emphasized the role of local leadership in protecting women and children, particularly during vulnerable periods like the festive season.
Survivors shared their experiences, shedding light on the devastating physical, emotional, and psychological toll of GBV. They called for increased access to psychosocial support, mental health services, and empowerment programs to help them rebuild their lives.
The campaign aligns with the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025, reaffirming Nairobi County’s dedication to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
Present was Mercy Wanjohi, Ag Deputy Director Gender, Roselyn Mkabana, GBV Coordinator health among other county officials, Kilonzo Kedron, Refugee representative, stakeholders from Nafsi Hub, Swap ambassadors, Elevate Her, Unity and Sending Peace to all tribes, U.S Agency for International Development (USAID), FIDA Kenya, Dreams, World Vision, Awe Some among others.
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