A powerful five-part series exploring the reality of gender-based violence in Kenya  

Sexual violence is a devastating reality affecting millions of people and Kenya globally, and Kenya is no exception. 34% of Kenyan women have experienced physical violence since the age of 15, and 13% have faced sexual violence at some point in their lives according to the 2022 Kenya Demographic and Health Survey. These violations include rape, defilement, child marriage, female genital mutilation (FGM), and sexual exploitation.

This high prevalence persists despite the existence of progressive laws, with new and increasingly harmful violations emerging daily. The situation demands an urgent and comprehensive response that not only  stops the increasing violations but also addresses the root causes.

For this reason, Equality Now in collaboration with our partners and social media influencers with whom we have shared ideologies on gender equality,  engaged  diverse Kenyan communities to assess the real impact of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and check the pulse on the ground. This collaboration brought together likely and unlikely allies to ensure the call for change reaches far and wide. Through these conversations, we sought to hear from communities in their contexts whether the laws and policies that Kenya is lauded for globally translated to rights and tangible benefits on the ground. 

The conversations took place at the heart of the communities in Busia, Kajiado, Kisumu, Kwale and Nairobi Counties amplifying voices and powerful stories of resilience, change and hope from  survivors, legal experts, human rights champions, community leaders, duty bearers and changemakers creating an impactful dialogue.

Each episode of this five part series offers  insights, solutions, and compelling personal stories from influential thought leaders and respected personalities in Kenya including:

• Kambua Mathu– Artist and Maternal Health Advocate
• Janet Mbugua – Media personality, TV host and Founder, Inua Dada Foundation 
• Philip Karanja– Film Director and Producer
• Benard Kariuki – Artist 

The conversations covered:

• The reality of child marriage and FGM – A focus on Kajiado and Narok Counties
• Child marriage in Kwale County and its connection with other violations including rape, and sexual exploitation
• Emerging trends of GBV in Kenya
• The ugly truth about GBV in the family and community: A Focus on Busia and Kisumu Counties.

Through these conversations, we are not only highlighting the gravity and persistence of SGBV in Kenya but also hope to inspire action and renewed and collective commitment to ending GBV. By amplifying survivor voices, we continue to push for change and realization of gender equality in Kenya.