Kenyans March Against Gender Violence

Thousands of Kenyans took to the streets on Monday to commemorate the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women. The peaceful march, which was held in various cities across the country, aimed to raise awareness about the scourge of gender-based violence and to demand action from the government to protect women and girls.

Photo source : Al Jazeera

The march was organized by a coalition of women's rights groups, civil society organizations, and government agencies. Participants included women, men, and children from all walks of life, who carried banners, placards, and signs with messages condemning violence against women.

According to the National Crime Research Centre, gender-based violence is a major concern in Kenya, with one in three women experiencing physical or sexual violence in their lifetime. The centre also reports that cases of domestic violence, rape, and defilement have been on the rise in recent years.

Photo source : Al Jazeera

The Kenyan government has taken steps to address the issue, including the enactment of the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act in 2015. However, activists argue that more needs to be done to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable and that survivors receive adequate support and justice.

The march on Monday was a call to action for the government to do more to protect women and girls from violence. It was also a show of solidarity with survivors of gender-based violence and a reminder that everyone has a role to play in preventing and responding to violence against women.

As the world marks 16 days of activism against gender-based violence, Kenyans are demanding that their government takes concrete steps to address this scourge. The march on Monday was just the beginning of a long journey towards a future where women and girls can live free from fear of violence.