KOMESHA DHULUMA: KEWOPA LEADS CAMPAIGN TO END GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE AND FEMICIDE

 

KEWOPA launched the highly anticipated “Komesha Dhuluma” campaign, a bold initiative aimed at addressing the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide in Kenya. Backed by H.E. President William Ruto’s allocation of Ksh. 100 million, the campaign seeks to create transformative change at the grassroots level by tackling the root causes of GBV.

KEWOPA Chairperson Hon. Leah Sankaire, speaking during the pre-launch event, highlighted the urgency of the campaign. “This initiative is about more than just awareness. It is about engaging communities directly, empowering survivors, and advocating for reforms that ensure justice for victims,” she said.

The campaign will be implemented by KEWOPA’s 102 members, who will lead tailored community sensitization forums in their constituencies. These activities are expected to directly engage 106,000 individuals and reach over 10 million Kenyans through digital platforms and other outreach programs.

The alarming increase in femicide and GBV cases, including high-profile incidents involving intimate partners and young women, has prompted civil society organizations to call for urgent action. KEWOPA members have emphasized the need for collective responsibility in combating these issues.

“We can no longer stand by as women and girls live in fear of violence. This campaign is a clarion call for all Kenyans to unite in eradicating GBV and ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable,” Hon. Sankaire added.

The initiative will also involve key stakeholders such as the Judiciary, law enforcement agencies, and women’s rights organizations to ensure comprehensive support systems for survivors. The campaign will culminate in a national event at Parliament Buildings on International Women’s Day in March 2025.

As KEWOPA leads this charge, they reiterate that the fight against gender-based violence is not solely a women’s issue but a national priority.

“Together, we can end femicide and GBV. This is our moment to build a society grounded in equality, justice, and respect,” Hon. Sankaire concluded.

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