Kenyan Women Unite Against Violence and Advocate for Quality Education

By Bruno Aero Family Media & Tv Staff Journal  Writer

Dr Jennifer Riria giving a key note during the brief

A powerful statement issued by Kenyan women under the auspices of Echo Network Africa Foundation, African Women Leadership Network (AWLN-Kenya) Chapter, and The Democracy Trust Fund has condemned the rising cases of violence and gender-based violence (GBV) in the country. The statement, signed by Dr. Jennifer Riria, Chairperson of AWLN-Kenya Chapter, expresses deep concern over the worsening security situation and calls for urgent action to address the challenges facing the education sector.

The women are particularly disturbed by the teargassing and firing of bullets at worshippers in a church, which has revived memories of past violence. They emphasize that places of worship are sacred and should be respected at all times. The statement also condemns verbal violence by legislators and urges leaders to foster a culture of open communication and respectful dialogue.

Regarding education, the women express concern over the low transition rates from Junior school to Senior School, chaotic placement processes, high cost of education, inadequate infrastructure, and insufficient teaching and learning materials. They urge the government to act with speed and address these challenges, emphasizing that education is a constitutional right that should be accessible to all.

The statement welcomes the Report and recommendations of the Presidential Technical Working Group on GBV, including Femicide, and urges the President to proclaim GBV as a national disaster. The women pledge to support national efforts aimed at safeguarding the safety and security of all, especially girls and women, and to create safe spaces for intergenerational conversations. 

Key Demands:

End to Violence Condemnation of violence and GBV, and urgent action to address the security situation

Quality Education Addressing challenges facing the education sector, including low transition rates, chaotic placement processes, and inadequate infrastructure

Leadership Accountability Urging leaders to foster a culture of open communication and respectful dialogue

GBV as National Disaster Proclaiming GBV as a national disaster and implementing recommendations of the Presidential Technical Working Group

The women of Kenya are committed to playing their part in keeping the country safe and providing solutions to the myriad challenges facing the nation.