A brief synopsis of GBV in Kenya

1. GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN KENYA
Introduction
Gender-based violence (GBV) is a significant issue in Kenya, affecting individuals across various
age groups and socioeconomic backgrounds. Domestic violence in Kenya reflects worldwide
statistics in that women are the overwhelming majority of victims. Over 40% of married women
in Kenya have reported being victims of either domestic violence or sexual abuse. Worldwide,
over 30% of "ever-partnered women" aged 15 and older have experienced physical or sexual
partner violence. The distinct factors and causes of this high percentage have often not been
studied due to lack of data.
Factors such as low levels of education, religion, and socioeconomic status all are relevant when
looking at the causes of domestic violence in Kenya. Sexual coercion is prevalent in Kenya and
often leads to abuse as well. Pregnant women are more likely to be victims of domestic abuse
because they are more likely to be in a relationship.[5] Pregnant women are often also
economically or socially vulnerable, putting them at a higher risk for domestic violence due to the
patriarchal dominance. Unwanted pregnancies are often seen as the fault of the woman, leading
to more abuse. The gender roles in Kenya contribute to the acceptance of domestic abuse.
Domestic Violence:
According to a national survey conducted by the Kenyan government in 2014, 39% of women
aged 15-49 experienced physical violence at some point, while 14% experienced sexual violence.
The same survey revealed that approximately 45% of women believed that a husband is justified
in beating his wife under certain circumstances.
It's worth noting that domestic violence is highly underreported in Kenya, and the actual figures
are likely to be higher.
Sexual Violence:
The 2014 national survey found that 14% of women aged 15-49 reported experiencing sexual
violence, with the majority of incidents involving intimate partners.
Rape and defilement cases are also prevalent, although reliable statistics on these offenses are
challenging to obtain due to underreporting.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM):
FGM remains a significant concern in Kenya, particularly in some communities. According to the
Kenya Demographic and Health Survey 2014, about 21% of women aged 15-49 have undergone
FGM. The prevalence of FGM varies across different ethnic groups, with some areas reporting
much higher rates than the national average.
Human Trafficking:
Kenya serves as a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking. Women and girls
are particularly vulnerable to trafficking for sexual exploitation and forced labor.
Exact statistics on human trafficking in Kenya are challenging to determine due to its clandestine
nature. However, the problem persists and requires ongoing attention.

2. Efforts to combat gender-based violence in Kenya include legal reforms, public awareness
campaigns, and support services for survivors. It's essential to consult updated sources and
organizations working in this field to obtain the most current and comprehensive statistics on
gender-based violence in Kenya.
What are the causes of violence against women in Kenya?
From my brief search and experience, violence against women in Kenya is influenced by a complex
interplay of various factors. While it's important to recognize that each case is unique and
individual motivations can differ, here are some common underlying causes and contributing
factors:
Gender Inequality
Deep-rooted gender inequalities and patriarchal norms perpetuate violence against women.
Discriminatory practices, unequal power dynamics, and the perception of women as subordinate
contribute to the prevalence of violence.
Cultural and Traditional Practices
Certain cultural and traditional practices, such as female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage,
and dowry-related violence, continue to perpetuate violence against women in some
communities.
Socioeconomic Factors
Poverty, unemployment, and economic dependency can exacerbate violence against women.
Financial stress and limited economic opportunities can contribute to tensions within households,
increasing the likelihood of violence.
Weak Legal Framework and Implementation
Gaps in the legal system, including weak enforcement and inadequate access to justice, can
hinder efforts to prevent and respond to violence against women. Limited awareness of legal
rights and fear of reprisal may discourage survivors from seeking justice.
Harmful Masculinity Norms
Societal expectations of masculinity, which emphasize aggression, dominance, and control, can
contribute to the perpetration of violence against women. Harmful gender norms that reinforce
male entitlement and reinforce violence as a means of exerting power play a role in GBV.
Alcohol and Substance Abuse
Substance abuse, particularly alcohol, is frequently associated with cases of gender-based
violence. Substance abuse can impair judgment, lower inhibitions, and increase the risk of violent
behavior.

3. Limited Awareness and Education
Insufficient awareness about gender-based violence, its consequences, and available support
services can contribute to the perpetuation of violence. Lack of education and information about
gender equality and women's rights may hinder progress in addressing the issue.
Weak Social Support Systems
Inadequate support systems for survivors, such as limited access to safe shelters, counseling
services, and medical assistance, can make it challenging for women to escape abusive situations
and seek help.
MITIGATING ABUSE AND VIOLENCE AGAINST WOMEN
I am aware that addressing violence against women requires a multi-faceted approach that
involves legislative reforms, community engagement, education, and economic empowerment
initiatives. Efforts to challenge harmful gender norms, promote gender equality, and strengthen
support systems for survivors are crucial in combating violence against women in Kenya. This
approach must be comprehensive and multi-dimensional and must involve various stakeholders.
Below I wish to discuss briefly how given an opportunity I would mitigate abuse and violence
against women in Kenya.
Advocacy for Legal Reforms and Implementation
Strengthen existing laws and policies on gender-based violence, ensuring they are comprehensive
and effectively enforced. Train law enforcement officers, judges, and other relevant personnel on
handling cases of violence against women sensitively and effectively and establish specialized
courts or units to expedite the processing of gender-based violence cases.
Article 25 of the Constitution of Kenya adopted in 2010 includes the following provisions on violence
against women: Despite any other provision in this Constitution, the following rights and fundamental
freedoms shall not be limited—(a) freedom from torture and cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or
punishment; (b) freedom from slavery or servitude.
Awareness and Education
Conduct widespread awareness campaigns to challenge societal norms that perpetuate violence
against women and promote gender equality.
Provide comprehensive education on gender equality, women's rights, and respectful
relationships in schools, universities, and communities.
Promote media campaigns, including TV, radio, and social media, to raise awareness and change
attitudes towards violence against women.
Support Services for Survivors
Establish and strengthen helplines and hotlines to provide immediate support and information to
survivors of violence. Develop and expand accessible and safe shelters, counseling services, and
medical facilities for survivors.

4. Train healthcare providers to respond sensitively to survivors of violence and offer appropriate
medical and psychological support.
Economic Empowerment
Promote women's economic empowerment initiatives, including skills training, entrepreneurship
programs, and access to credit and resources.
Encourage employers to adopt policies that support women's employment, including flexible
work arrangements and maternity leave.
Facilitate access to vocational training and job placement services for women to enhance their
economic independence.
Engaging Men and Boys
Conduct targeted programs that engage men and boys in addressing gender-based violence,
challenging harmful masculinity norms, and promoting gender equality.
Promote positive models of masculinity that reject violence and encourage respectful and
equitable relationships.
Engage men as allies and advocates in community-based initiatives to prevent violence against
women.
Strengthening Data Collection and Research
Enhance data collection systems to capture accurate and reliable information on the prevalence
and forms of violence against women.
Conduct research and studies to identify emerging trends, risk factors, and effective interventions
to prevent and respond to violence against women.
Utilize data and evidence to inform policy and programmatic interventions.
Collaboration and Coordination
Foster partnerships among government agencies, civil society organizations, community leaders,
and international organizations to coordinate efforts to address violence against women.
Establish and support multi-sectoral platforms and task forces that work together to develop and
implement strategies to prevent and respond to violence against women.
Addressing violence against women requires sustained commitment, resources, and
collaboration at various levels of society. By combining legal reforms, awareness campaigns,
support services, economic empowerment, and engaging men and boys, significant progress can
be made in reducing and ultimately eliminating violence against women in Kenya.
Conclusion
I am fully aware how sensitive and delicate this matter is, and especially in terms of intervention.
But given an opportunity, and the necessary support, I can bring change. A family at a time!