Statement on the Discovery of Bodies at Kware Quarry in Mukuru Kwa Njenga
Nairobi, Kenya – The Centre for Rights, Education and Awareness is deeply horrified by the recent discovery of nine mutilated bodies in an abandoned quarry at Kware in Mukuru Kwa Njenga. Our sincerest sympathies and deepest condolences to the families during this difficult time.
We are further appalled by the report from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirming that all the bodies recovered were female. This gruesome discovery signifies a grave violation of human rights and raises urgent concerns about the rule of law, security and the failure of protection measures for all Kenyans and specifically women and girls. It is particularly alarming in light of the recent surge in mysterious disappearances and abductions, including the tragic loss of 39 lives during the Finance Bill 2024 protests, as reported by the KNHRC.
CREAW unequivocally condemns these heinous acts of violence and demands decisive action from the government.
We call for immediate, transparent, and thorough investigations to ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice and held accountable to the fullest extent of the law. All the relevant authorities must be held accountable for their acts of commission and/or omission. Kenyans deserve to be secure and protected.
In response to these horrific events, CREAW is offering free legal and psychosocial support to the families and all those affected. Please reach out to us through our toll-free line at 0800 720 186.
We remain committed to advocating for a world free of violence and ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all individuals, particularly women and girls, are respected and protected.
About CREAW: The Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and girls in Kenya. We work towards creating a just society where women and girls can live free from violence and discrimination, and have the opportunity to thrive with voice and agency.
3rd July 2024
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Press Release: CALL FOR THE IMMEDIATE RESIGNATION OF JOHN CHEBOCHOK FROM THE DIRECTORSHIP OF TOROR TEA FACTORY.
The Coalition Against Sexual Violence (CASV), urgently calls for the immediate resignation of Mr. John Chebochok from his recently elected position as Director of Toror Tea Factory, managed by the Kenya Tea Development Agency (KTDA).
Despite multiple documented attempts to halt his candidacy, Mr. Chebochok is set to be sworn in, an action that profoundly disregards the serious allegations against him. Mr. Chebochok was prominently featured in a BBC documentary that exposed his egregious abuse of power, including sexually exploiting women and demanding sexual favors in exchange for employment. Despite these grave allegations and his subsequent termination by James Finlays, now Browns Investment Plc, in 2023, Mr. Chebochok remained on the ballot. He was never charged in a court of law due to the reluctance of his alleged victims to come forward.
The decision to allow Mr. Chebochok’s bid for the directorship was met with significant concern. On June 24th, Kenya Tea Board (KTB) Chief Executive Officer Willy Mutai, expressed these concerns in a letter to IEBC CEO Hussein Marjan. Mr. Mutai highlighted the potential negative repercussions on the global market for Kenyan tea. In addition, he noted that the Articles of Association of Tegat Tea Factory Company Limited, under which Toror Tea Factory falls, stipulate that a director must be of good standing in society. Mr. Chebochok’s candidacy clearly violates this stipulation.
The Independent Electoral and Boundaries Commission (IEBC) must be held accountable for clearing Mr. Chebochok to vie despite the serious allegations highlighted in the BBC expose. This failure to act appropriately raises significant questions about the IEBC’s commitment to ensuring that only candidates of integrity are allowed to hold public office.
The election of Mr. Chebochok represents a significant safeguarding risk to female tea workers and smallholders and undermines the strides made in addressing human rights issues within the tea sector. It also perpetuates a culture of impunity, discouraging victims from speaking out and seeking justice.
Further, Mr. Chebochok’s presence in a leadership role poses a major reputational risk to the Kenyan tea industry. The reappointment of managers terminated for similar offenses by other tea companies has already contributed to this culture of impunity. It is imperative that immediate
action is taken to prevent further damage.
Additionally, we urge the IEBC and the Tea Board of Kenya to take responsibility for this oversight and ensure such a situation is never repeated. Upholding the values of dignity, respect, and fairness is crucial for the integrity of the Kenyan tea industry and for protecting the rights and dignity of survivors of sexual violence.
This statement has been signed off by members of the Coalition against Sexual Violence. They include: Wangu Kanja Foundation, Utu Wetu, Advocates for Social Change Kenya, The African Gender and Media Initiative, Independent Medico Legal Unit, Center for Rights Education and Awareness, The Kenya Legal and Ethical Issue Network, Gender Violence Recovery Center, Trust for Indigenous Culture and Health, Association for Grassroots Journalists in Kenya, Flone Initiative, Huru Defenders and ActionAid Kenya.
Press Statement Date: 27th June 2024 FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE CREAW Strongly Condemns Recent Killings and Abductions of Kenyans Exercising Their Democratic Rights.
Nairobi, Kenya – The Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW) extends its deepest condolences to the families who have lost their loved ones during the recent protests against the Finance Bill 2024. We strongly condemn the recent killings of Kenyans who were peacefully protesting this punitive bill. We are deeply saddened and outraged by the violent response meted out to peaceful citizens exercising their constitutional right to peaceful assembly and expression.
We are also alarmed by reports of abductions targeting Kenyans who have courageously stood up for their rights, including women who have been at the forefront of these protests. These acts of violence and intimidation are unacceptable and stand in direct violation of the principles of democracy and human rights enshrined in our Constitution.
As a national women’s rights organisation, we stand in solidarity with Kenyans in fully rejecting the Finance Bill 2024 which would exacerbate existing inequalities and deepen the plight of women and girls of Kenya.
We demand justice and accountability from the relevant state agencies and that those responsible for these heinous acts face the full consequences of the law. The protection of citizens and their democratic rights must be the foremost priority of any democratic government. We also demand that the government of Kenya provide a safe environment for Kenyans to peacefully protest as is protected in the constitution.
In response to these events, CREAW is offering free legal aid and counselling services to survivors of violence as well as their families. Affected people can reach out through our Toll-Free line 0800 720 186.
We remain committed to advocating for a world free of violence and ensuring that the rights and freedoms of all individuals, particularly women and girls, are respected and protected.
For more information, please contact: info@creawkenya.org
About CREAW: The Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to the promotion and protection of the rights of women and girls in Kenya. We work towards creating a just society where women and girls can live free from violence and
discrimination, and have the opportunity to thrive with voice and agency.
CREAW and CRAWN Trust convened a forum to review the proposed Elections and Political Parties Bills.This culminated in developing a joint memorandum that was later submitted to Senate.
The women leaders & advocates therefore presented a joint memorandum to the Senate of Kenya, urging reforms for stronger governance & democracy. Our voices unite for accountability and inclusivity.
H.E President Ruto presents CREAW’s Executive Director Wangechi Wachira with the Trailblazer Award
Before Women’s History month comes to an end, we want to take time celebrate CREAW’s trailblazing efforts to promote Gender Equality. In the heart of the recent International Women’s Day celebrations, held on March 8th, Center for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW) was honored with a prestigious Trailblazer Award for its unwavering dedication to advancing gender equality and empowering women. This recognition stands as a testament to the organization’s tireless efforts and significant contributions in championing the rights and voices of women across Kenya.
In the last five years we have achieved significant milestones in empowering women and girls advocating for their rights in Kenya. These achievements include a demonstrated ability to innovate and adapt, highlighted by initiatives such as the Jasiri Fund. This adaptability enabled us to effectively navigate challenges such as the COVID-19 pandemic, making a tangible impact in communities across the country.
We witnessed a remarkable growth in our programmatic resources, leading to an expansion of our programs. As a result, our sub-granting initiatives strengthened the institutional capacities of empowered more nascent women groups and empowered them to challenge negative social norms and pursue meaningful change at the community level. The establishment of a second SGBV Outreach Center at the Mukuru informal settlements s has ensured access to justice for women and girls who are SGBV survivors and strengthened pathways to economic resilience and recovery.
Furthermore, the launch of the Mukuru Office signifies our increased commitment to addressing SGBV issues within most vulnerable communities. We also established an in-house Public Interest Litigation unit as a foundation to advance legal advocacy and access to justice for survivors victims of SGBV. Through advocacy efforts at both national and county government levels, we played a crucial role in shaping gender-related policies and influencing legal reforms across several Kenyan counties, including Meru, Narok, Kitui, Isiolo, Nairobi, and Nyeri.
The awards were part of the national festivities for International Women’s Day, hosted in Embu County. The event was graced by His Excellency President William Ruto, alongside Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and Meru Governor Cecily Mbarire, and numerous other esteemed government officials. The vibrant atmosphere was further enriched by the members from the Meru community, as well as representatives from various state and non-state stakeholders.
Other awardees during the event were First Lady Rachel Ruto, Jackline Saleiyan, Brig Joyce Sitienei, Eunice AJ Dobby, Anne Gloria Njoki, Moraa Obiria, Zipporah Nderitu, Juliana Miheso, Alice Nganga and Governor Gladys Wanga.
CREAW’s recognition as a Trailblazer highlights the critical role it continues to play in catalyzing transformative change and breaking barriers that hinder the full realization of gender equality. Through its multifaceted initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and grassroots programs, CREAW has not only amplified the voices of women but has also pushed for tangible progress towards building a more just and inclusive society for all.
CREAW team celebrating the award
During his address at the event, President Ruto emphasized the significance of these awards, portraying them as a powerful symbol of our collective stride towards fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Moreover, President Ruto reaffirmed his commitment to pushing for the implementation of the two-thirds gender rule, thereby ensuring that women are accorded more opportunities to assume leadership roles and actively contribute to shaping the nation’s future.
CREAW also had a chance to showcase its work with United States Agency for International Development (USAID) under the recently launched USAID Elevate Voice Yake program at the event. The program aims to amplify the voices and aspirations of adolescent girls and women to better exercise their right to dignified and meaningful life protected from Sexual Gender Based Violence. This is to be achieved through integrated action by communities, government, private sector and civil society initiatives across 3 counties of Kiambu, Kwale and Meru, by 2026.
Pauline Masese of YCWA, which is an implementing partner of the Elevate Voice Yake showcasing the program to USAID Mission Director for Kenya and East Africa, David Gosney
CREAW’s recognition as a Trailblazer underscores the pivotal role it continues to play in catalyzing transformative change and breaking barriers that hinder the full realization of gender equality. Through its multifaceted initiatives, advocacy campaigns, and grassroots programs, CREAW has not only amplified the voices of women but has also pushed for tangible progress towards building a more just and inclusive society for all.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE DATE: 17th January 2024 URGENT CALL FOR ACTION AGAINST ESCALATING FEMICIDE INCIDENCES IN KENYA
The Centre for Rights, Education and Awareness (CREAW) is deeply disturbed and appalled by the alarming surge in femicide cases in Kenya, as recently highlighted in the media.
The tragic incidents which include the murder and dismemberment of a 24-year-old woman in Kasarani and the shocking murder of Starlet Wahu at South B, reiterate a distressing pattern of violence against women that continues to plague our society. The recent murders are reminiscent of numerous femicide cases that occurred in Kenya back in 2019 where as many as 84 young women were brutally murdered, reportedly by intimate partners. The re-emergence of femicide in 2024 only serves to underscore the fact that more needs to be done to keep women and girls safe in Kenya.
The gravity of this issue is further highlighted by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime (UNODC) 2021 report, which revealed that 56% of all female homicides globally are committed by intimate partners or family members, in stark contrast to the 11% of male homicides perpetrated in the private sphere. Shockingly, an estimated 45,000 women and girls worldwide lost their lives at the hands of an intimate partner or family member, equating to an average of five women or girls killed every hour within their own families.
Our young women and girls must no longer continue to be part of these shocking statistics. We therefore must all join hands and lend our voices in speaking out and demanding justice for those whose lives have been tragically cut short. In this regard, CREAW calls on the Kenyan government to prioritize the investigation and prosecution of femicide cases. We demand swift and decisive action in bringing the perpetrators to justice, sending a strong message that violence against women will not be tolerated. It is imperative that law enforcement agencies follow through on their obligation to address these crimes, ensuring thorough investigations and effective follow-ups.
In addition to this, the Judiciary must ensure it delivers justice impartially, swiftly, and efficiently in these cases. Delayed justice is a denial of justice, and we urge the judiciary to take a zero-tolerance approach towards those who perpetrate violence against women and girls.
Furthermore, we all must ensure that we do not contribute towards the normalization of violence against women and girls and instead work as a nation towards creating an environment where women and girls are safe, protected, and respected. The culture of silence must be shattered, and communities must unite in speaking out and actively preventing and protecting our women and girls.
CREAW stands in solidarity with the slain women and their families, demanding justice, accountability, and an end to the pervasive culture of violence against women and girls. We will continue to work tirelessly towards a society where women and girls can live free from violence and are able to thrive and reach their fullest potential.
Signed CREAW
About the Centre for Rights Education and Awareness
CREAW envisions a just society where women and girls enjoy full rights and live in dignity. We believe in the equality of rights, with empowerment and justice made available for every woman and girl. We stand for, ensuring women and girls have Power, Voice and Agency. For more information on CREAW, please visit: www.creawkenya.org.
For Further Inquiries
Contact: Njambi Mungai
Email: Njambi.mungai@creawkenya.org
Christine Malakwen, the chief of Kiasagat location in Trans Nzoia County, has emerged as a beacon of hope for the youth in her community. Through her participation in the Imarisha Msichana training program, she has acquired invaluable skills in protecting and guiding her constituents, particularly in matters concerning sexual and reproductive health. Her dedicated efforts have resulted in a significant reduction in teen pregnancies and the increased reintegration of young mothers into educational institutions.
In the busy settlement of Kibera, Makina Ward, Superb Community Based Organisation (CBO) finds its purpose. This feminist women-led organisation is on a mission to challenge the instruments of power that perpetuate violence against the rights of women and girls while amplifying their voices and fostering gender equality.
In a move aimed at advancing gender equality and empowering women across Kenya, the Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW) and the Council of Governors (COG) have inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU). The agreement, signifies a pivotal moment in fostering a collaborative partnership between these institutions and county governments throughout the nation.
The Centre for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW) was honored on Wednesday, August 16th, at the ongoing 10th Devolution Conference for its strides in promoting gender responsiveness and inclusivity. Standing out among the various institutions, CREAW emerged the winner in the prestigious CHUI category of the Devolution Awards. This category is dedicated to recognizing institutions that have demonstrated an exceptional commitment to fostering gender responsiveness and inclusivity across various demographic segments such as youth, women, children, persons with disabilities, older persons, and other vulnerable groups.
3rd July 2024
