By Orenge Wycliff
Spotlight on 16 Days of Activism: Rallying Against Gender-Based Violence in Kisii
Civil society Organizations and workers from the Kisii county Department of Health Matching in the streets with banners, raising awareness against GBV Photo | Orenge Wycliff
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) has begun, with civil society organizations taking a leading role in advocating for human rights and denouncing all forms of GBV. Against a backdrop of rising violence and human rights violations, Kisii’s civil society groups, including Arm Shield International, AiPEC Kenya, Threshold of Hope Africa, Amnesty International, Mwanyagetinge CBO, and Minto Foundation, organized a public march to amplify calls for an end to GBV affecting women and men alike.
A Disturbing Rise in Violence
The campaign comes at a critical time, as recent weeks have seen a disturbing increase in cases of extreme violence against women. Reports detail harrowing incidents of women being killed, their body parts mutilated, and their remains discarded in garbage dumps, wrapped in polythene. This surge in violence has galvanized civil society groups from across Kenya to take a firm stand against what they term “genocide” targeting women.
Many of these heinous acts are reportedly perpetrated by intimate partners or law enforcement officers. The violence underscores deep societal issues, including toxic relationships, inadequate mental health support, and systemic failures in law enforcement and justice systems.
Calls for Justice and Accountability
Mr. Amisi Oyunge, Chair of AiPEC Kenya and Coordinator for civil society organizations in Kisii, has been vocal in demanding justice for victims of GBV. Speaking during the march, he called upon law enforcement and other security agencies to ensure perpetrators are held accountable.
“It is disheartening to witness our young girls and women being brutalized over reasons that are often trivial or unexplained,” Mr. Oyunge said. “We call upon the police and relevant authorities to ensure that perpetrators of such violence are arrested, prosecuted, and punished according to the law.”
Gender-Based Violence: A Shared Burden
While GBV is often viewed as an issue affecting women, evidence suggests that men also suffer from abuse, albeit in silence. Men are frequently reluctant to report abuse, fearing ridicule or stigma from society. This silence often exacerbates their suffering, leading to severe mental health issues, including depression and suicide.
Statistics indicate an alarming increase in suicides among men, many of which are linked to toxic relationships. Mental health professionals and civil society groups emphasize the importance of addressing men’s mental health and creating safe spaces for them to express their struggles.
Civil society Organizations and workers from the Kisii county Department of Health Matching in the streets with banners, raising awareness against GBV Photo | Orenge Wycliff
“We must recognize that men are also victims of GBV and work to break the societal norms that discourage them from seeking help,” Mr. Oyunge stated. “It’s time for everyone—men and women—to stand together to end this violence.”
The Role of Social Media in Modern Relationships
Another concerning trend is the role of social media in facilitating dangerous encounters. Young women and girls are increasingly falling prey to violence after meeting strangers online. These relationships often escalate quickly, leading to tragic outcomes such as murder or physical assault.
Parents and guardians are urged to educate their children about the risks of online interactions. Civil society leaders advise individuals to exercise caution when meeting strangers, emphasizing the importance of public meeting places and group settings.
“Social media is a powerful tool, but it can also be dangerous,” one activist said. “We must teach our children to use it wisely and prioritize their safety.”
A Renewed Push Against Female Genital Mutilation
The 16 Days of Activism also focuses on ending harmful practices such as Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). This practice, often prevalent during festive seasons, poses severe physical and psychological risks to young girls. Activists are urging communities to abandon FGM and embrace alternative rites of passage.
“Young girls must be empowered to say no to FGM,” said a representative from Mwanyagetinge CBO. “If they face pressure from their families, they should seek help from recovery centers or report the matter to the authorities.”
Collaboration and Community Action
Ending GBV requires collective action from all sectors of society. Law enforcement, policymakers, religious leaders, and ordinary citizens all have roles to play. Civil society organizations are spearheading efforts to educate communities about GBV, provide support for survivors, and advocate for systemic changes to address the root causes of violence.
The Kisii march featured various stakeholders who underscored the need for community-led initiatives to foster peace and understanding. Activists distributed educational materials, shared survivor stories, and held workshops to promote alternative conflict resolution methods.
The Importance of Mental Health Support
Central to addressing GBV is tackling the underlying mental health issues that often fuel violence. Men, in particular, face immense societal pressures as providers and decision-makers, which can lead to emotional distress if unaddressed.
“Men need safe spaces to talk about their struggles without fear of judgment,” said a mental health advocate. “Supporting their emotional well-being is crucial to reducing violence and fostering healthier relationships.”
Global and Local Perspectives
The 16 Days of Activism is an international campaign observed annually from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. The campaign provides a global platform to amplify local efforts and push for universal respect for human rights.
In Kisii, the campaign’s theme this year emphasizes inclusivity, urging society to address violence against all genders. Activists hope that the heightened awareness generated during these 16 days will inspire sustained efforts to end GBV.
Looking Ahead: A Call to Action
As Kisii’s civil society organizations lead the charge against GBV, they are calling on everyone to join the movement. Whether through volunteering, advocacy, or simply speaking out against violence, every individual has a role to play in creating a safer and more equitable society.
“We must unite to protect the rights and dignity of every human being,” Mr. Oyunge concluded. “This is not just a campaign; it is a call to action that must continue long after these 16 days.”
The march in Kisii is just one of many events taking place across Kenya and around the world as part of the 16 Days of Activism. With a combination of awareness, education, and community action, there is hope that this campaign will mark a turning point in the fight against GBV.
Conclusion
The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence serves as a powerful reminder of the urgent need to protect human rights and address systemic issues fueling violence. In Kisii, the collective efforts of civil society organizations, local leaders, and activists highlight the potential for transformative change.
As the campaign progresses, the hope remains that these efforts will not only raise awareness but also inspire long-term solutions to end GBV and create a society where everyone—regardless of gender—can live free from violence and fear.
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