Empowering Survivors, Ending Impunity: Kenya’s Bold New Push Against GBV and Femicide

By Yvonne Githinji

Kenya’s battle against gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide is taking a decisive turn, placing survivor protection, economic independence, and judicial accountability at the centre of national interventions. Through cross-sectoral collaboration, the government and international partners are moving beyond awareness campaigns to build concrete systems that safeguard vulnerable women and girls.

At the heart of the campaign is the expansion of GBV recovery centres, safe houses, and judicial reforms designed to fast-track prosecutions. Speaking on the multi-agency response, Gender, Culture, the Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary Hanna Wendot Cheptumo emphasised the critical role of financial literacy, digital inclusion, and economic independence in breaking the cycle of abuse.

“Our ministry is advancing this agenda by supporting access to finance, markets, skills development, entrepreneurship opportunities and decent work. We are promoting financial literacy, digital inclusion and access to emerging economic opportunities, particularly for women and young people in rural and underserved areas,” she said.

Addressing the root causes of GBV also requires shifting deep-seated cultural attitudes and engaging men as strategic advocates for gender equality. Reinforcing this approach, Cheptumo noted:

“Gender equality is not a women’s issue alone. Men and boys are critical partners in transforming social norms and advancing equality.”

The societal impact of GBV extends far beyond individuals, placing pressure on judicial systems, healthcare networks, and community trust. UN Women Kenya Country Representative Antonia N’gabala Sodonon highlighted both the severity of the crisis and the institutional progress made through specialised GBV courts, which have increased from one to 13.

“Gender-based violence affects the fabric of society, and it erodes trust — trust within families, trust within communities, and even trust towards government,” she said.

To support rapid intervention, the government has introduced a dedicated WhatsApp reporting line, 0704 884 444, alongside the national 1195 GBV helpline, providing survivors with more accessible avenues to report abuse, seek protection, and pursue justice.