Gender-based violence is a human rights violation that thrives on silence. In northern Kenya, communities are finding the courage to speak.
Gender-based violence (GBV) is any harmful act directed at a person because of their gender. It includes physical violence, rape and sexual abuse, psychological abuse, early and forced marriage, and harmful practices such as female genital mutilation. It affects women, girls, boys and men — though women and girls bear the greatest burden. In northern Kenya, much of it remains hidden.
Why GBV goes unreported
- Stigma — survivors fear being blamed, shamed or rejected by their families.
- Family and clan pressure — cases are often settled privately between families, sometimes with compensation paid to the family rather than justice for the survivor.
- Distance and cost — police stations, hospitals and courts can be far away.
- Lack of awareness — some survivors do not know their rights or where to go.
The impact on survivors
GBV can lead to trauma, unwanted pregnancies, sexually transmitted infections and, in the worst cases, death. It also keeps girls out of school and women out of economic life, reinforcing poverty and inequality.
The legal framework
Kenya has strong laws, including the Sexual Offences Act (2006), the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (2015) and the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011). Survivors have the right to medical care, police protection and justice. The gap lies in awareness and enforcement.
Breaking the silence: what works
- Community awareness — open conversations about GBV in mosques, schools, markets and on radio.
- Engaging men and boys as allies who challenge violence among their peers.
- Training first responders — health workers, police, chiefs and teachers — to respond with care and confidentiality.
- Safe reporting channels, including hotlines where survivors can report without fear.
- Economic empowerment so that women are not trapped in abusive situations by financial dependence.
VOPA's commitment
Countering gender-based violence in all its forms is part of both our Human Rights Advocacy and Peace Building programmes. We support capacity building and awareness, advocacy campaigns, and work towards establishing a hotline where survivors can report safely.
Where to get help
In Kenya, survivors of GBV can call the free national helpline 1195, or the child helpline 116. In an emergency, go to the nearest police station or health facility. No one deserves to suffer in silence.
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