As the world marked the start of the 16 Days of Activism campaign, the Kibera Gender Advocacy Network (KGAN) officially launched the initiative yesterday at Guadalupe under the theme Come Together, Act Now. The event began with a community walk from 42 Terminus through Bombolulu and Olympic, aimed at raising awareness of the importance of ending gender-based violence (GBV).
KGAN has planned a series of activities during the 16 days, including radio sessions at Pamoja FM, online and in-person discussions, and community campaigns to highlight the need to end violence against women and girls.
“Today, we have come together with the county and the national government to discuss issues on GBV in Kibra and measures we have put in place to fight against GBV. In these 16 days, there will be legal aid, psychosocial support, and radio programs where we will have experts discussing different forms of violence,” shared Edrian Wangatia, a member of KGAN.
Coptic Hospital participated in the launch, providing consulting services and free GBV support at their facility.
Frankline, a GBV officer at Coptic, said, “We are here today to normalize the conversation on GBV and let people know there is someone they can talk to. At Coptic, we offer 24-hour GBV service throughout the year.
The Kibra Sub-County administration also called for vigilance in addressing GBV even as Femicide cases continue increasing in the country.
“As the Kibra Sub-County administration, we are sensitizing families and passing the message that if they see any red flags, report it to the authorities. Nothing should be taken lightly, not children, women, and men. When one is afraid to come in person, they can reach us via text or call,” shared Catherine Wanjiku, Senior Assistant Chief Jamhuri.
This launch marks the beginning of a collective effort to combat GBV in Kibra, offering hope and support to survivors while empowering the community to act.
