CONCLUSION OF THE 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER BASED VIOLENCE

The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) joins Kenya and the global community in marking the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), commemorated annually from November 25 (International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women) to December 10 (World Human Rights Day). This year’s theme, “Towards Beijing +30: UNiTE to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” underscored the urgent need to renew our collective resolve in combating all forms of GBV, with a particular focus on femicide.

1. Advocacy and Achievements

Throughout the campaign, the Commission spearheaded advocacy initiatives, partnering with State and non-State actors to amplify the call to action against GBV. Activities across the country included:

1. Engaging communities through grassroots dialogues, radio programs, webinars, and public barazas.
2. Collaborating with county governments and stakeholders to launch key GBV prevention policies.
3. Hosting regional events to sensitize the public, law enforcement, and duty bearers on the prevention, response, and management of GBV.
4. Advocating for survivors’ rights through the establishment of safe spaces and recovery centers, while emphasizing survivor-centered approaches to service delivery.

These activities culminated in a nationwide campaign that called for strengthened legislative measures, investment in prevention and rehabilitation programs, and greater involvement of men and boys as allies in combating GBV.

1. Addressing the Rising Cases of Femicide

The Commission expresses grave concern over the alarming rise in femicide cases, where women and girls are killed on account of their gender. Often, these heinous acts are perpetrated by intimate partners, family members, or close acquaintances, exposing deep-rooted societal issues that normalize violence against women.

The Commission therefore reiterates its call for:

1. Men to lead the fight against GBV by championing attitude and behavioural change. Men must take a stand, denounce violence, and model positive change within their communities.
2. Implementation of robust legal frameworks to deter, prosecute, and punish perpetrators of GBV and femicide, ensuring justice for victims and survivors.
3. Innovative strategies, including leveraging technology, to combat emerging drivers of violence such as Technology-Facilitated GBV.

1. Holding Duty Bearers Accountable

We commend the President for his commitment to ending GBV by allocating financial resources toward the fight against GBV. This commitment has catalyzed critical interventions during this year’s campaign. However, the Commission remains resolute in holding duty bearers accountable to their mandates and ensuring that the pace of progress in eliminating GBV matches the urgency of the issue.

1. Violent Dispersal of Peaceful Protesters against Femicide

The Commission strongly condemns the excessive use of force by police during the peaceful #EndFemicideKE demonstrations in Nairobi on December 10, 2024. It is unacceptable for those exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly to be met with tear gas, violence, and arrests. These actions undermine the very principles of human rights we sought to uphold on International Human Rights Day.

We call on the authorities to investigate these incidents, hold those responsible accountable, and ensure that the right to peaceful protest is protected.

As the Commission tasked with promoting gender equality and protecting vulnerable groups, we reaffirm our commitment to:

1. Advocating for the elimination of GBV in all its forms.
2. Partnering with communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders to prevent, respond to, and manage GBV cases.
3. Ensuring the protection and promotion of the rights of women, girls, and other marginalized groups.

Women’s rights are Human rights! Together, we must forge a society where every woman and girl can live free from violence and fear.

HON. REHEMA DIDA JALDESA

CHAIRPERSON

Chairperson Hon. Rehema Dida Jaldesa