From November 25 through December 10, the United Nations marks the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), a campaign that aims to get more people to play a role in ending GBV.
However, for Jaqueline Mutere, the 16 Days of Activism against GBV has a much deeper meaning that is connected to elections in Kenya.
This is because Mutere was one of the many women that were raped during the violence that rocked Kenya after the 2007 disputed presidential elections.
The attack, by a neighbor, led to the birth of her daughter and complications which nearly killed her effectively making her vow to speak out for those who could not.
After surviving the horrific experience, Mutere has since used her voice to great effect having founded an advocacy group called the Grace Agenda to try and ensure victims are involved in dealing with the issue of sexual violence.
Mutere has maintained her conviction for the cause and earned global recognition including an opportunity to attend a conference on the prevention of sexual violence in conflict in London this year.
The 16 Days of Activism provides an opportunity to recognize individuals making a mark within the society for their contribution towards ending GBV and other forms of violence in Kenya.
One such woman is former Migori Woman Representative Dennitah Ghati who created a GBV Centre using affirmative action funds in Kuria East constituency.
"The center acts as a rescue center for girls against FGM," Ghati told Kenyans.co.ke adding that the 16 days of activism provide an opportunity for lobbying by both government and other stakeholders.
According to the former lawmaker, persons with disabilities are ten times more likely to suffer GBV compared to other people.
She called for a multi-sectorial approach and increased public sensitization on the issue in order to ensure justice for the victims.
Journalist Janet Mbugua has also been outspoken against GBV and violence of any kind.
Speaking to Kenyans.co.ke, Mbugua highlighted the efforts her organization, Inua Dada, is making in providing psychosocial support to survivors with the aim of equipping them with economic empowerment skills.
"Victims need to be protected and know that when they come forward they will still be safe. In many cases this doesn’t happen," Mbugua told Kenyans.co.ke.
As Kenya joins the world in marking the 16 Days of Activism, women like Mutere, Mbugua and Ghati stand out for the contribution they are making toward ending GBV in the country.
