04/04/2025
Engaging Men to Combat Gender-Based Violence, Sexual Gender-Based Violence, and Femicide in Kenya
Gender-based violence (GBV), s*xual gender-based violence (SGBV), and femicide continue to plague communities in Kenya, fueled by deep-rooted cultural practices and harmful norms. In an effort to address these issues, the Social Justice Centers Working Group and KHRC have come together to launch a groundbreaking initiative: engaging men as agents of change.
Traditionally, harmful practices such as early marriages and female ge***al mutilation have been justified by cultural and religious beliefs, perpetuating a cycle of violence. While efforts have been made to support women and girls, targeting the perpetrators has often been overlooked. Recognizing the role men play in upholding these norms, the new initiative seeks to transform them into advocates for change.
Through community engagement sessions held in areas like Dandora and Dagoretti, selected men are educated on GBV and SGBV, encouraged to challenge harmful norms, and empowered to promote positive values within their communities. By equipping men with knowledge and values, the initiative aims to address the root causes of violence and drive lasting change.
The involvement of men in these efforts marks a significant shift in the fight against gender-based violence. By working together with stakeholders, the initiative offers hope for a future where every woman and girl can live without the threat of violence. Through education, empowerment, and collective action, we are taking crucial steps towards creating a more equitable and safer society in Kenya.
Kenya Human Rights Commission
Social Justice Centers Working Group
UNDP Kenya
