Despite the existence of robust legal frameworks in Kenya, Gender-Based Violence (GBV) continues to be a widespread violation of human rights, disproportionately affecting women and girls. According to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS), over 40% of women have experienced physical or sexual intimate partner violence during their lifetime. Additionally, the prevalence of child marriage and female genital mutilation (FGM) stands at 23% and 21%, respectively, further highlighting the vulnerability of women and girls to violence.
These violations are exacerbated by crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic, electoral instability, and natural disasters like floods and droughts, all of which have compounded the exposure of women and girls to GBV. Survivors of GBV suffer not only from physical harm but also from long-term psychological and emotional consequences, including low self-worth, self-harm, depression, and suicidal tendencies.
A key factor in addressing these issues is empowering women with land rights, which is crucial for their economic security and independence. However, land ownership and inheritance remain major barriers for women in Kenya. Despite legal frameworks protecting women's land rights, cultural norms, and discriminatory practices persist, preventing many women from accessing or owning land. Women without land are more vulnerable to violence, poverty, and exploitation. HEDSO envisions being at the forefront of preventing and responding to GBV by integrating land rights into its advocacy and empowerment efforts. By creating awareness on both GBV and land rights, HEDSO aims to enhance the resilience and economic security of women and girls, thereby mitigating their vulnerability to violence.
| Goal: Enhancing self-advocacy among AGYW and youths to improve prevention and response to GBV and ensuring that prevention and response mechanisms are functional at all levels. | |
|---|---|
| OBJECTIVES | EXPECTED OUTCOMES |
| To promote equitable and inclusive land ownership and management by advocating for the recognition and enforcement of land rights, particularly for women, youth, and marginalized communities, through capacity building, policy engagement, and community empowerment initiatives. | Increased Awareness:
Enhanced knowledge among
community members about land rights,
laws, and equitable inheritance
practices.
Empowered Communities: Women, youth, and marginalized groups actively assert their land rights and participate in land management processes. Policy Reforms: Adoption or enforcement of gender- responsive and inclusive land policies at local, regional, or national levels. Reduced Land Disputes: Increased resolution of land conflicts through mediation and access to legal services. Strengthened Livelihoods: Improved economic opportunities for women and marginalized groups as a result of secure land ownership and access to productive resources. Cultural Shift: Progressive changes in attitudes and cultural norms regarding land ownership and inheritance, fostering gender equality and social inclusion. |
| Capacity building of AGYW and youths on Gender Based Violence, referral pathways, and laws and policies addressing Gender Based Violence. | AGYW and youths actively challenge and prevent all forms of violence and abuse against them.
Reduced cases of Gender Based Violence among AGYW. |
| Creating a safe and supportive environment for AGYW and youths in and out of learning institutions against all forms of GBV and discrimination to thrive and achieve their full potential. | Schools and learning institutions provide a safe and conducive environment for AGYW and youths. |
| Advocate for the development and implementation of gender responsive policies and budgets to ensure access to justice for AGYW and youths. | State and Non-State actors develop and implement gender-responsive and budgeting policies that ensure access to justice for AGYW and youths. |
| Enhance knowledge on Gender Based Violence. | Community, religious, and community gatekeepers challenge norms and practices that perpetuate violence against AGYW and youths. |
| Economic integration of AGYW to reduce the incidence of GBV. | Increased financial stability among AGYW and youths and reduced level of vulnerability. |
| Promote mental health by offering psychosocial support services to AGYW and youth GBV survivors. | Improved mental health and wellbeing of AGYW and youths. Improved access to psychosocial support services that enhance overall wellbeing. |