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.
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.
Two years ago in 2021, I was honored to attend the inaugural luncheon for Lady chief Justice Martha Koome. This appointment presented us with an opportunity to not only reflect on what the journey of women in leadership has been but also to celebrate the achievements so far and inspire other women to seek for leadership positions.
Mumina, a woman hailing from the Sokoni ward in Kilifi County, faced numerous challenges, particularly during her early years of marriage. Despite the difficulties, she took immense pride in raising her eight daughters.
Millicent Aluoch is a devoted mother of five children living in Mombasa County. Her marriage was tumultuous, with Millicent sometimes seeking refuge at her parents' house, trying to escape the violence and discord in her marriage. Yet, despite the hardships, she found herself going back to her husband, driven by her love for her children and the desire to keep the family together.
Shaney Swale, a middle-aged, single parent from Kongowea, Mombasa, thought she has met the man of her dreams in her high school boyfriend. During their nine years of dating, Shaney managed to complete her high school education and was presented with an opportunity to travel to Canada for work.
Anne Keino, a dedicated community champion hailing from Nerkwa, Elgeyo Marakwet, has taken a firm stand against the rising number of teen pregnancies in her area. She attributes this concerning trend to the illicit liquor trade that plagues her community.
In Keiyo sub-county, Moses Kiprono, a concerned parent, has observed the distressing prevalence of early pregnancies among young girls. He attributes this troubling trend to parental negligence and the grip of poverty.
We as the Coalition of Organizations Working on Sexual Violence in Kenya are appalled and deeply saddened by the revelations in the BBC One Panorama investigative report titled Sex for Work: The True Cost of Our Tea that aired on 20th February 2023.
Margaret, a resident of Bangladesh, Mombasa County is a charming, determined mother of three and an entrepreneur. She holds a bright vision of how her life and that of her kids will eventually turn out to be despite her rocky past.
