PIK targets the youth as peace champions
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Kenya celebrates Peace Day with the launch of Amani clubs
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A MONTHLY MAGAZINE BY PEACE INITIATIVE KENYA (PIK) PROJECT
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Peace agenda, everybody’s business special issue: Talking PEACE
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his is a Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) Tusemezane magazine special issue that highlights various activities held across Kenya on September 21, 2015 to commemorate the International Day of Peace. Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) is a three and a half -year USAID funded project working towards the prevention of and response to gender based violence (GBV) in Kenya. The project aims at supporting prevention of Gender Based Violence and improving the current GBV response framework at the national and county levels. The PIK project is implemented by the International Rescue Committee (IRC), together with local partners; Rural Women’s Peace Link (RWPL), Sauti Ya Wanawake – Pwani, Health Care Assistance Kenya (HAK) through GBV helpline 1195, Women’s Empowerment Link, African Women’s Entrepreneurship Program (AWEP), Rapado, Nyabende Support Programmes, Amjutine Children’s Care and Protection Centre and African Woman and Child Feature Service AWC). The project covers nine counties: Taita Taveta, Kwale, Mombasa, Kisumu, Migori, Kisii, Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Trans Nzoia to improve GBV prevention, as well as increase access and utilization of GBV services through community outreach and other awareness raising efforts. At the national level, the PIK project works closely with the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), Ministry of Devolution and Planning, specifically the Directorate of Gender, Anti-Female
Genital Mutilation (FGM) Board and other stakeholders to support the Government in creating an enabling environment for coordination of GBV prevention and service provision. Project Goal: • To improve national and countylevel gender-based violence (GBV) service delivery systems and policy implementation.
CONTENTS
Project Objectives: • Strengthen county engagement in preventing and responding to GBV • Increase access and utilization of GBV services through community outreach and other awareness raising efforts Contact Information International Rescue Committee Regent Court, along Argwings Kodhek Road Contact the Chief of Party Phone: +254 726082140 Email: PIK@rescue.org Facebook: GBV Service Providers Africa Woman and Child Feature Service
Nairobi Baptist Church Court, Green Lane, off Ngong Road ,Nairobi Phone: +254 20 2720554, +254 722 209510 Email: info@awcfs.org Website: www.awcfs.org
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Lack of funding cripples peace activities
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Kisumu County to establish integrated and comprehensive ways of addressing GBV
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Peace actors want county governments to fund peace initiatives
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Early warning systems pose challenge to women
Gender Based Violence, a threat to sustainable peace
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Civil society organizations urged to foster peace in communities
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Enhancing women’s confidence for effective peace building
Editorial Team IRC Team Jebiwot Sumbeiywo Joyce Muchena Ruth Oywaya Valine Moraa
AWC Team EXECUTIVE Director:
Arthur Okwemba Managing Editor:
Jane Godia Programme Manager:
Ruth Omukhango
CONTRIBUTORS
Odhiambo Orlale Faith Muiruri Ben Oroko Antonia Musunga Henry Kahara Robert Wanjala Carolyne Oyugi
Valine Moraa Abisai Amugane Odhiambo Alal Christine Ogutu Miller Omega DESIGN & printing:
Vieve Omnimedia
This production is made possible by the generous support of the American people through the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). The contents do not necessarily reflect the views of USAID or the United States Government. INTERNATIONAL RESCUE COMMITTEE
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AFRICAN WOMAN AND CHILD FEATURE
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
PIK targets the youth as peace champions
Addressing the community at Kisii University, Amutabi observed that the country cannot achieve meaningful development if the youth who constitute a majority of the population are not engaged in peace initiatives. He noted that the youth have a role to play in enhancing sustainable peace within their communities and the country as whole.
Students of Kisii University in a procession to mark International Day of Peace at the university grounds. Picture: Ben Oroko
The youth have a role to play in enhancing sustainable peace within their communities and the country as whole By Ben Oroko
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nder normal circumstances, major international days hardly ever include youth unless the specific days are related to young people. However, this year, things were different when the International Day of Peace was marked in Kenya. Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK), a project of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) implemented in partnership
with local organizations with support from USAID, decided to celebrate the day in a different style. This year, PIK, chose that the most important segment of society, the youth, would make the highlight of the International Day of Peace. Collaboration In collaboration with Kisii University and Amjutine Child Care and Protection Centre — PIK implementing partner in Kisii County — the celebrations held at the university grounds formed
the focus of what is also known World Peace Day. Students at Kisii University were challenged to use their knowledge and position in society to preach peace within their immediate communities. Kisii University Deputy Vice-Chancellor, Prof Maurice Amutabi, underscored the importance of university students being champions of peace both in learning institutions and within their immediate communities. He noted that it’s only then that the country and world at large will experience peace and security.
“Majority of developed countries have coup proof structures which are conflict-sensitive to ensure peace and security,” observed Amutabi. He noted: “Developing countries have no coup proof structures thereby providing a breeding ground for political conflicts which pose insecurity and a violation of human rights.” In reference to this year’s International Day of Peace theme, “Partnerships for Peace — Dignity for all”, Amutabi who is a peace scholar, underscored the importance of women’s empowerment for the country to achieve peace and security. He reiterated that peace starts in the homes before it spreads out to the society at large. Critical issue
Amutabi observed that Gender Based Violence (GBV) is a critical social issue which poses a challenge to the communities and country in the pursuit of peace and security. turn to page 4>>
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Quoting Mahatma Gandhi, Amutabi said: “Peace bequeaths peace, violence bequeaths violence.”
Developing countries have no coup proof structures thereby providing a breeding ground for political conflicts which pose insecurity and a violation of human rights.”
Amutabi’s sentiments were echoed by Ruth Oywaya, Gender Officer at IRC who noted that peace in the world begins in the home. “If there is no peace in the home there will be no peace in the world,” Oywaya noted. She warned university students against engaging in violence and urged them to use their knowledge and position in society to provide peaceful solutions to incidents of violence and insecurity. “University students are respected people in their immediate communities. I’m challenging you to use this opportunity to be peace ambassadors in the institutions and within your communities to ensure the country enjoys peace and security,” reiterated Oywaya. Solutions to conflict
She warned university students against applying violence while seeking solutions to conflict of various magnitudes. She advised them to apply their knowledge and skills to offer peaceful and lasting solutions to any particular conflict. “Whenever you come across your parents fighting at home, kindly do not respond to such conflict 4
Prof Maurice Amutabi, vice chancellor in charge of Students affairs at Kisii University
with violence but instead offer peaceful solutions as social change and peace champions,” urged Oywaya. According to Mary Njue, a student from the School of Business and Economics: “Without peace at home, there will be never be peace anywhere in the world and it is the responsibility of everyone to ensure peace starts with themselves before spreading to the world.” Njue’s sentiments were echoed by James Rolex, who admitted that university students were best placed to champion for peace in the country since they command respect in their immediate communities. “This projects them as agents of social change not only in their immediate families and communities but also in the country,” said Rolex. In a message read on her behalf by personal assistant, Lilian Marwa, Kisii County Governor’s spouse Elizabeth Ongwae challenged young people, especially university
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students to be agents of social change both in their learning institutions and immediate communities to assure the country and her citizens of peace and security. “University students, being the top cream in their communities are best placed to offer peaceful solutions to various conflicts which can lead to violence as well as threaten peace and security,” Ongwae stated. She observed: “My joy would be to see young people positively engaged as peace champions to ensure peace and security prevails in communities and the country at large.” According to Dr Caren Nyamwange, Director Institute of Gender and Development Studies at Kisii University, bringing conversations of peace to a training institute with students from diverse backgrounds will facilitate them to act as agents of social change
through dissemination of peace messages in their communities. She noted that such actions would translate to national cohesion and integration among Kenyan communities. “Having students from this university trained by PIK on peace and security will not only create an environment for peaceful co-existence in the institution, but also across the entire country as they will disseminate the same message to their respective communities and ensure peace and security prevails,” stated Nyamwange. Training Peace Initiative Kenya has developed a training manual which will be used to train students at the Kisii University on GBV, peace and security. Peace Initiative Kenya, a project that has been running for three years aims to eliminate all forms of violence and ensure peace prevails within communities, starting from homes. The project’s mission is to improve national and county-level Gender Based Violence (GBV) service delivery systems and policy implementation with a vision of ensuring that Kenya is a nation free of all forms of gender based violence. The PIK project targets women and men as partners in GBV prevention, and stakeholders in leadership positions as change agents in the fight against GBV.
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Lack of funding cripples peace activities
Women members of sub-county peace commitees in Nairobi during a workshop organized by AWCFS. Picture: carolyne oyugi
National efforts of peacebuilding and peacekeeping have not been able to make successful inroads due to lack of financial support By Antonia Musunga
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he post-election violence that Kenya experienced in 2007 saw the Government and other stakeholders put in place strategies and structures to prevent conflict and maintain peace in the country. Initiatives One of these initiatives was the creation of peace committees at various administrative levels
from the village, location, division, district, provincial and national. One of the committeesâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; roles was reporting early warning signs to the National Peace Coordinator. This was a key strategy in the prevention and response to violence in the subsequent General Election in 2013. At the International Day of Peace which was marked on September 21, it emerged that national efforts of peacebuilding and peacekeeping have not
been able to make successful inroads due to lack of financial support. The International Day of Peace is committed to strengthening ideals of peace. All over the world there are women and men who hold influential positions and are referred to as messengers of peace. Here in Kenya, women without any influential positions, with barely enough resources to sustain their livelihoods, remain the greatest instruments of peacebuilding through their efforts in prevention and response to impending conflict. These are the women who sit in peace committees. At a meeting by women
members of peace committees in Nairobi organised by African Woman and Child Feature Service (AWC) to mark the International Day of Peace, speakers after speaker intoned to the major stumbling block to peace efforts, funds. Peace committees While the idea of peace committees was a noble one, overtime they have become empty shells due to lack of funding and support from the county government. Mary Moi, a member of Starehe Sub-county Peace Committee explains: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I turn to page 6>>
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joined the peace committee in 2008 after which I was trained on skills to network with relevant contact persons who would inform me of tension or pending conflict.” She adds: “From the training, it was made clear to us that we would choose the course of action depending with the level of threat detected.” Public baraza
This would be to either inform the officer commanding station (OCS) or ask the area chief to call a public baraza to mitigate a looming conflict. The peace committees were also expected to carry out various activities that would create awareness around peacekeeping and peacebuilding. However, lack of financial support has hindered their work. “Previously we used to organize activities such as concerts and exhibitions to preach for alternative dispute resolutions. However, lack of funding has made this difficult,” observes Moi. Her sentiments are echoed by Nancy Wahitu from Makadara Sub-county Peace Committee who says verifying reported information from areas that are far from their locations has been a major challenge for members of the peace committees. “Many a time I cannot inform the chairperson of my committee of any 6
reports that I have received due to lack of airtime,” says Wahitu. She notes: “Most of these early warning signs remain at the point where they have been received and no action is taken to quell them.” While a majority of women volunteer as peace champions
of alerts and information sharing has gone down and she attributes this to lack of funding. “These women are passion driven volunteers but lack of funds to implement peace initiatives has completely lowered their morale,” explains Chepkemoi. She
I joined the peace committee in 2008 after which I was trained on skills to network with relevant contact persons who would inform me of tension or pending conflict.From the training, it was made clear to us that we would choose the course of action depending with the level of threat detected.” Mary Moi, a member of Starehe Sub-county Peace Committee
in the committees, the lack of funding, insecurity and difficulties in mobility have limited the impact of their work. Other than funding challenges, other factors negatively affecting peace committee’s efforts include political influence, unclear institutional structures and gender inequality as well as tension between traditional institutions and peace committees. According to Ruth Chepkemoi, Nairobi Coordinator Directorate of Peace Building and Conflict Management, the level
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notes: “Members of peace committees and especially women are exposed to many threats and require some monetary motivation to support their families since most of them come from low income families.” Support In addition to some small money, the women require transport services and airtime to coordinate their work. This is because most threats are reported to them at night which requires instant attention to prevent them from escalating to dangerous levels. Peace committee activities
are now totally dependent on financial and institutional support from nongovernmental organizations and other well-wishers. However, Chepkemoi notes that their efforts have not been dampened by the array of challenges that they face. These women have been forced to change tact and strategize through partnerships with other peace organizations who share their passion for the cause. Chepkemoi recommends institutionalization of committees, budgetary allocation by the government, capacity building by stakeholders as well as provision of civic education to the public to increase support for peace work. “These steps will enrich impact of peace committees to be felt more by the communities as agents of non-violent avenues of conflict mitigation,” Chepkemoi explains. A 2014 report by Peace Direct indicates that while peace committees have had many successes in their work, payment of sitting allowance by some civil society organisations saw the volunteers develop clear mechanisms of reporting such as the use of short messages services (SMS) to communicate.
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Francis Ole Kaparo (second left) NCIC chairperson joins in International Peace Day celebrations. Picture: henry kahara
Kenya celebrates Peace Day with the launch of Amani clubs By Henry Kahara
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hen the United Nations passed the resolution in 1981 to observe International Peace Day, Kenya, as a member country was signatory to it and promised to adhere to its tenets. Thirty four years later, having undergone trials and temptations that threatened to break the country, Kenya observed the International
Peace Day this year at a colourful event held in Nairobi where Amani (Peace) clubs were launched by Hassan Wario, Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Culture and Arts. Amani clubs were established by the National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) in partnership with the Ministry of Education Science and Technology. The initiative targets students in primary, secondary and tertiary
institutions. Amani clubs focus on sensitising young people on how to maintain peace. “We already have a memorandum of understanding with the scout club to register at least one million children in Amani clubs,” said Francis Ole Kaparo, chairman National Cohesion and integration Commission. He added: “If you don’t teach your children peace, someone will teach them turn to page 8>> war.”
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Kaparo urged school going children to register as Amani club members. Members of Amani clubs will be trained on peace keeping and peace building after which they will be commissioned to preach the agenda of peace all over the country. Speaking during the celebrations, Cabinet Secretary for Sports, Culture and Arts Hassan Wario urged Kenyans to maintain peace saying development can only be achieved if the country is at peace. “Leaders can’t afford to ignore school going children while speaking about peace. We need to include peace lessons in our curriculum,” Wario said. Time has come
He added: “Amani clubs will be in all our schools and it’s an idea whose time has come. It is time to start teaching our children about peace while still at a tender age.” Wario noted that it’s not possible for a country to speak about peace without including young people. He said this is the time for Kenyan institutions to get rid of disorder including students burning schools. He urged students to learn to settle their differences peacefully. “At least 70 percent of Africans are youth and we can’t talk about peace 8
We already have a memorandum of understanding with the scout club to register at least one million children in Amani clubs,” Francis Ole Kaparo, chairman National Cohesion and integration Commission.
without including them,” said Wario. He urged Kenyans to use all available avenues to settle disputes without incurring expenses. Traditional ways “We don’t have to go to court to settle disputes. Let’s use traditional ways since they are simple and more easy to use,” he said. Kaparo reiterated that security remains key to peace keeping and that it was each and every individual’s responsibility to maintain peace. “Peace doesn’t just happen. We work for it.” Kaparo, a former speaker of the National Assembly, said his role as chair of the National Commission on Cohesion and Integration is the most important assignment he has ever undertaken in life. He noted tribalism has been the major cause of quarrels in Kenya. Kaparo also warned young people against using social media to
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spread hatred. He said the Commission is keen on those spreading hatred in social media and he will not hesitate to take action. “Totality of your wellness is hanged on peace. Violence needs to be avoided at all cost,” Kaparo said. He reiterated: “The state of peace in the country determines the growth rate. Peace is fragile and hence needs to be guarded by everybody.” Nairobi County Commissioner Godfrey Kigoci said for a country to succeed in peace keeping, it has to involve young people. “We have to involve our youth to become agents of peace in mainstreaming natural cohesion,” Kigoci said. He noted that peace is founded by a society and it is the fundamental factor to strengthen human relations. At the same time Nairobi County Primary School
President Rukia Abdu, a class seven pupil at Donholm Primary School urged children to maintain peace in school as well as at home. Abdu challenged pupils to do away with narratives borrowed from the parents. “We are one Kenya and we need to do away with tribalism,” Abdu said. Advocating for peace The event was graced by students from both public and private schools from around the country. The students entertained those present with songs and poems advocating for peace. International Peace Day is observed each year September 21. The United Nation General Assembly declared it a day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. This year world peace day theme was partnership for peace dignity for all. It is against this background that a section of Christian leaders in Nairobi joined the Muslim fraternity at Jamia Mosque during their Friday prayer meeting. The move was aimed at bolstering the relationship between the two faiths. The day coincided with Kenya’s West Gate Mall terrorist attack’s fourth anniversary.
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Gender Based Violence a threat to sustainable peace acknowledges that absence of peace leads to Gender Based Violence inside and outside homes and mostly affects women and children. In this regard, PIK project creates awareness on preventing and responding to Gender Based Violence, which has a correlation to a peaceful society. Grave challenges
Students of Kisii University at the Chaacha Grounds where celebrations were held to mark International Day of Peace. Picture: ben Oroko By Ben Oroko
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o address cases of Sexual Gender Based Violence (SGBV) including sexual harassment and abuse of students by people in authority, the administration of Kisii University has developed a Gender Based Violence (GBV) Policy to ensure the institution is a GBV-free zone. The institution has also developed a Gender Policy that provides a learning and working environment which promotes gender equity and equality to both male and female students as well as staff. Kisii University Deputy ViceChancellor in charge of Academic and Student Affairs, Professor Maurice Amutabi disclosed that the university administration has clear laid out procedure on handling cases of sexual violence and abuse.
Partnership Amutabi was speaking at the university grounds during the International Day of Peace celebrations that were organized by the University’s Institute of Gender and Development Studies in partnership with the Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) project. The PIK project marked the Day across the nine counties where it has presence, in partnership with other stakeholders. Organisations working under PIK celebrated the International Peace Day by calling on all Kenyans to work on peace in and outside the home by making individual efforts in ending Gender Based Violence. Peace Initiative Kenya project
According to Amutabi, GBV is an emerging issue on the international human rights agenda that poses grave challenges to the education sector, especially within institutions of higher learning. “As a University, we have developed a Gender Policy that looks at issues that may hinder participation of both male and female students including cases of SGBV,” explained Amutabi. He noted: “With the policy, the University affirms that GBV is unacceptable and cannot be tolerated within the institution.” As a strategy for addressing real and perceived GBV, all university employees in supervisory capacity receive appropriate training to take leadership in implementing the GBV Policy at the institution. The GBV Policy lays down guidelines and procedures for identifying forms of GBV, offer preventive interventions and set up turn to page 10>>
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sexual relations with their male lecturers in exchange for good grades. This not only demeans the dignity of the student but also their intellectual ability to perform exemplary in their studies.
mechanisms of operating and handling GBV related incidences. The policy covers all the university employees and students as well as third parties such as contractors, suppliers and visitors to the institution. “According to the GBV Policy, the university protects and maintains the confidentiality of members of the university community who may be involved in GBV complaint procedures,” disclosed Amutabi. He commended International Rescue Committee (IRC), the lead organisation in the PIK project for identifying with Kisii University in addressing GBV. Amutabi noted that the partnership between the university and the PIK project will empower the youth with GBV detection, prevention and response skills to ensure they become agents of social change in their communities. Power of knowledge “University students have the power of knowledge which they can use to bring social change in their communities, especially in ending GBV and other forms of violence,” stated Amutabi. According to Dr Callen Nyamwange, Director at the Institute of Gender and Development Studies,
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Wendy Ouma (left) of PIK joins Kisii University Students in a dance to mark the International Day of Peace. Picture : christine ogutu
incidents of GBV at the university may result in disciplinary and corrective action, which includes termination or expulsion and possibly legal action being taken according to the laws of Kenya in which the violation has been perpetrated. “Where a GBV incident has been detected or reported within the university environment, the administration acts to stop the harassment and prevent its recurrence,” said Nyamwange. She explained: “Discipline or other appropriate action is taken against those responsible.” Nyamwange noted that whereas the GBV advisor’s role is to facilitate a resolution of the issue, he or she should not seek to discourage the complainant from proceeding with a formal complaint if she or he feels it is warranted.
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She challenged female students from the university to concentrate on their course work and research projects, instead of relying on making sexual overtures to their lecturers in exchange for marks, regretting that, this puts into question the integrity and credibility of some of the graduates joining the labour market. “It is an open fact that in some cases, some university lecturers undertake research projects and compile the findings for their female students,” observed Nyamwange. Echoed These sentiments are echoed by Ruth Oywaya, a Gender Officer at IRC within the PIK project. Oywaya observed that some female students in learning institutions do not put efforts in their studies and instead resort to having
According to Oywaya, there are incidents where some lecturers deny female students marks if they decline to yield to their sexual advances which is unethical but it is good to know that the university does not condone any of such acts and they have a systematic way of handling such cases. Respond “The youth have a responsibility to prevent all forms of GBV before they happen and also respond to GBV by seeking for help from different service providers in the event that they are affected,” said Oywaya. Mary Njue, a student from the School of Business and Economics at the Kisii University challenged local community members to shun retrogressive cultural of silence which treat Sexual Gender Based Violence cases as taboo subjects. She said they should instead break the silence and speak out against the vice. “Keeping quiet over SGBV is a threat to brilliant education and careers of women and girls who are more vulnerable,” Njue lamented.
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the importance of all segments of society to work together to strive for peace. Peace Initiative Kenya envisions a nation that has zero tolerance to GBV as the gateway to ensuring peace prevails. Speaking during the event that also included officials from national and county leadership, the women leaders said though men are equally vulnerable, women are the most affected, especially in Nyanza region. Gender Based Violence activists led by Nyando Deputy sub-county commissioner, Elizabeth Atemi, during the International Day of Peace celebration held in Ahero town, Kisumu County. Picture: odhiambo alal
Kisumu County to establish integrated and comprehensive ways of addressing GBV By Odhiambo Alal
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s the world marked the International Day of Peace, continued hostilities against women and children highlighted the celebrations in Kisumu County. Peace and Gender Based Violence (GBV) advocates condemned the continuous hostility with a call to end violence and embrace peace
whenever there is dispute. More than 400 women, youth and men commemorated the Day of Peace in an event that was supported by Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK), a project of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) with support from USAID. The event held in Kisumu County was organized under the umbrella of Nyabende Support Programmes, an
implementing partner of the PIK project. The International Day of Peace was established by the United Nations General Assembly to be marked on September 21 of every year as a day of non-violence and cease fire. This year the day, which is informally referred to as World Peace Day, was commemorated under the theme “Partnerships for Peace — Dignity for All” which aims at highlighting
Champions The activists made stopovers at Nyando Law Courts, Nyando Police Station and Ahero town where they met with leaders of bodaboda operators who they have identified as champions in the war against Gender Based Violence.
According to Caren Omanga, chairperson Nyabende Support Programmes, Gender Based Violence has serious social, psychological and economic consequences causing trauma to women, families and communities at large. Worrying Levels Omanga said Gender Based Violence has been increasing to worrying levels despite the many legal and policy frameworks put in place to deal with perpetrators. “All Kenyans need to ensure peace both inside and outside the home because it’s a turn to page 12>>
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significant factor in reducing GBV against women and children,” said Omanga. This is in relation to the PIK project objective which looks at GBV as a social issue which is a hindrance to achieving peace. The PIK project further holds the belief that ensuring peace inside and outside homes will significantly reduce Gender Based Violence especially against women and children. Work together Speaking to this year’s International Day of Peace theme, Omanga said it aims at highlighting the need for society to work together to strive for peace in order to achieve economic and development growth. She called on national and county governments to provide adequate budgetary allocations to initiatives that seek to address Sexual and Gender Based Violence. This is in line with the PIK project objective and goal which aims at improving national and county-level gender based violence (GBV) service delivery systems and policy implementation. Speaking while flagging off the event, Assistant County Commissioner Nyando Elizabeth Atemi said they are working on policies to establish integrated and comprehensive ways of addressing GBV in the county.
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Caren Omanga of PIK project with Nyando Deputy OCPD Elizabeth Too during the International Day of Peace in Ahero Town. Picture: odhiambo alal
“GBV has been recognised as a serious global health, human rights and developmental issue,” said Atemi. She added: “Lack of integrated medical legal services and community ownership of services has been identified as a challenge in addressing Gender Based Violence.” Brought on board Atemi reiterated: “We want to ensure that all agencies involved in the fight against violence on women are brought on board to help in these activities.”
According to Atemi, the Government is in the process of forming GBV committees at sub-county level to help increase access to accurate and appropriate information services on Sexual Gender Based Violence. “The committee will also lobby for gender response and mainstream women’s rights
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as well as gender equality to change the national and county legislation agenda,” Atemi noted. The challenges hindering the prevention and management of GBV include inadequate facilitation of survivors due to lack of vehicles and facilities at police stations. Others are lack of specially trained staff for comprehensive collection of evidence and inadequate rescue centres or temporary shelters at police stations. It was noted that corruption has impacted on the use of P3 and post-rape care (PRC) forms.
enforce penalties against perpetrators of Gender Based Violence. She added: “Effective judicial systems should enforce stringent penalties for those found guilty of Sexual Gender Based Violence.” Prevent conflict According to Julius Ng’arng’ar, Senior Resident Magistrate Nyando Law Courts, there is need for partnership to prevent conflict both at home and within the community to ensure sustainable peace.
Atemi said lack of facilitation of survivors in the pursuit of justice, through the collection and maintenance of forensic samples remain a barrier to justice.
“We want the public to advocate for peace and avoid all triggers of conflict or violence,” said Ng’arng’ar. He added: “Let’s put in place structures that respond to the needs of Gender Based Violence cases caused by conflicts.”
However, Omanga urged the Judiciary to effectively
Omanga, however, noted that sexual exploitation
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among women features high on the list of human rights offences. “It is imperative that legislations are instituted and enforced to protect human rights,” she said She urged women in Kisumu County not to normalise GBV and break the silence that surrounds sexual violence if they are to win the war. This was reiterated by Nyando deputy police boss Elizabeth Too who urged the county’s residents to work closely with security agents to end the vice. Camouflaged The PIK project, in its report My Action Counts: An Assessment of Gender Based Violence Responses in Nine Counties of Kenya notes that the magnitude of the GBV had been camouflaged by socio-cultural stigmatisation associated with any attempt by survivors to seek justice. The assessment of GBV was done in the nine counties of Kisii, Kisumu, Migori, Kwale, Taita Taveta, Mombasa, Nandi, Trans Nzoia and Uasin Gishu counties.
According to Amina Akello, an activist from Kisumu, lack of funds remains the biggest challenge in the fight against GBV. “Counties should ensure that they start gender units within their structures to deal with Gender Based Violence issues affecting people on each sub-county,” urged Akello. She called for separate special spaces for survivors of GBV with facilities to allow for the confidential collection of testimonies and evidence within all police stations which should come with specialised staff to support survivors.
Traditional and religious leaders joined in the International Peace Day celebrations in Uasin Gishu County. Picture: robert kituyi
Peace actors want county governments to fund peace initiatives By Robert Wanjala
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eligious leaders as well as peace and conflict management champions want county governments to factor in their annual budgets a substantial amount of money for peace building activities which they said are critical in catalysing developments. Speaker after speaker at the International Day of Peace celebrations held in Uasin Gishu County underscored the need for counties to budget for peace building activities. They noted that by anchoring such efforts in the county government budgeting processes, they [counties] would get huge dividends in terms of attracting potential investments and mega development projects. Peace activists in the region decried
lack of funding support from key county players saying without funding to bolster peace-building processes the nation risked losing the relative peace it’s enjoying at the moment. Peace actors reflected on the events of 2007 post-election violence during the celebration and asked Kenyans to nurture and treasure peace. Displaced More than 1,100 people were killed, 3,500 injured with over 600,000 others forcefully displaced from their homes and property worth billions of shillings destroyed in the violence that was sparked by disputed presidential results in December 2007. Reverend Canon Peter Karanja, Secretary General turn to page 14>> National Council special issue: Talking PEACE 13
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of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) urged county governments to prioritize peace building in their development agenda. “Peace work in this country has over the years been funded by development partners and friends rather than government itself,” said Karanja who graced the celebrations with his wife. “From the experiences of 2007-2008, once peace breaks down the potential damage in terms of infrastructural and wealth cost is phenomenal.” This year’s International day of Peace theme “Partnerships for Peace — Dignity for All” aims at highlighting the importance of all segments of society to work together to strive for peace. Substantial resources Karanja reiterated that it’s high time both national and county governments set aside substantial resources for peace building and reconciliation activities as such a gesture would forestall the costly effects that come with violence. He reiterated: “It’s important for national and county governments to set aside money to support peace work in counties especially where there are occasional flare ups.” Karanja said more multifaceted strategies including funding of multi14
sectoral efforts would be necessary in bolstering and mitigating political intolerance that often spark inter-ethnic tensions. Each year the International Day of Peace is observed around the world on September 21. The United Nations General Assembly decreed this as a day to be devoted to strengthening ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. The celebrations were hosted under the umbrella of the Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) project led by its local implementing organisation Rural Women Peace Link (RWPL) and other stakeholders in Uasin Gishu County who implement peace building initiatives. According to Fred Yego, programme officer Rural Women Peace Link under
PIK project, peace was a crucial component that determined development for any serious government yet county governments had overlooked it in its budgeting. Development “We are asking county governments and especially Uasin Gishu to recognize peace as one of the most important components without which they cannot realize development in the county,” reiterated Yego. He added: “We need to reflect on the gains of peace since the 2007 post-election violence.” Yego noted: “We have evolved from a period of hostility to where communities have embraced each other and we can’t afford to lose that momentum due to lack of resources.”
In a rare feat, Uasin County Deputy Governor Daniel Chemno led religious leaders and the crowd in a spiritual reawakening when he underscored why God was the only one who could provide peace. Quoting verses from the Holy Scriptures Chemno said peace efforts will be in vain without people first humbling themselves as individuals. “If we want peace, we must be humble. God is the only one who will guarantee us peace but He will only do so when we have humble hearts and live a daily life of repentance,” Chemno told those who graced the celebrations. “Unless God Himself watches over us we cannot guarantee ourselves that we will live in peace. Peace building efforts However, according to Daisy Kosgei, regional coordinator, National Steering Committee on Peace Building and Conflict Management, Uasin Gishu County government had shown interest in peace building efforts. Kosgei noted that her committee was in the process of drafting a report on peace issues to be adopted by county governments in the expansive North Rift region.
Uasin Gishu County deputy governor, Daniel Chemno, said for peace to prevail people must humble themselves before God.Picture: robert wanjala
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“We are emphasizing the importance of peace and peaceful co-existence in the county and by extension the
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
entire North Rift region,” said Kosgei. She added: “We are asking county governments to take up peace building as a critical component.” Kosgei noted that the report being drafted will include issues of peace in the country’s development activities. Kenya is considered peaceful and has played home to thousands of refugees fleeing their countries as a result of political instability and civil strife. The country has also led a number of peace negotiations for its neighbours. The peace actors also urged the county government to create peace committee forums to facilitate talks around peace issues within various corners of respective county wards. Chairperson Kalenjin Council of Elders, Major (Rtd) John Seii said peace is not an item that one can purchase from shop. He noted that it is a process of cultivating individual tolerance with one another. Involvement According to Seii, genuine and durable peace requires the involvement of stakeholders at all levels of community. “We should involve all community stakeholders, men to women, youth to the older persons including special interest groups in case we want to realize
Uasin Gishu residents joined by national, county and religious leaders in a procession to mark International Peace Day. Picture: robert wanjala
genuine and durable peace,” observed Seii. The role of women in peace building could not be understated. Yego noted that women’s role in deradicalizing youth cannot be underrated. Restrain “Women play a key role in our society as most young people prefer to listen to their mothers or sisters and so women should stand up and talk to them as well as challenge their thinking,” Yego reiterated. On the other hand, Karanja challenged politicians to restrain from sowing seeds of hatred among communities. “Sometimes powerful community leaders mobilize masses and plant seeds of discord,” said Karanja. He noted: “We would only have lasting peace if as a com-
munity we are not going to allow political differences to divide us.” Karanja reiterated that it was the responsibility of county government leaders to make deliberate efforts and ensure those who feel isolated as a minority are brought closer and made to feel part of the county’s development agenda. “As we head towards the General Election in 2017, cracks of ethnic tensions have started to emerge. Let us observe maturity in our politics. Let us compete for political seats with the understanding that we cannot all win at once and that whoever wins is a representative for all,” he emphasized. Economic impact According to latest Global Peace Index report released 2015, the economic impact of violence on the global
economy last year was substantial and estimated at $14.3 trillion or 13.4 per cent of world Gross Domestic Product. Simply put; this is equivalent to the combined economies of Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, Spain and the United Kingdom. The report notes that violence impacts individuals and societies in a number of ways. “The costs associated with violence and conflict can be measured by their direct, immediate impact and the indirect costs which arise as a result of conflict and violence” the report points out. However, the report notes that if global violence was to decrease by ten per cent uniformly, an additional $1.43 trillion would effectively be added to the
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PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Early warning systems pose challenges to women
Ruth Chepkemoi, Nairobi Co-ordinator, National Women Steering Committee on Peace and Security. Picture: Carolyne oyugi
By Antonia Musunga
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information.
n 2012, the African Union (AU) called for the set up of regional structures for early warning in its efforts to facilitate efficient response to conflict and crisis situations in the continent.
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This was in acknowledgement to the fact that successful prevention of conflict lies in the awareness of potential conflict, the ability to analyze relevant information as well as the political will to take the right action when it is needed.
The structures to be known as AU Continental Early Warming Systems (CEWS) would collect, analyse and report in any conflictâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;related
Early warning is a critical part of conflict mitigation and peace building. Ruth Chepkemoi,
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Nairobi County Coordinator of the Directorate of Peace Building and Conflict Management, formally known as National Steering Committee on Peace Building and Conflict Management (NSC), explains how the early warning reporting works. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Through the Rapid Response Framework and the Conflict Early Warning and Response Unit (CEWARN) the directorate has been
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able to provide effective and efficient response to prevent conflict across Kenya,” explains Chepkemoi. “The peace committees are managed from the Directorate which is charged with overseeing and conducting training of the local peace committees on the dimensions of conflict that are specific to the different social structures in the country,” explains Chepkemoi. Field monitors Members of the peace committees are also known as field monitors working on voluntary basis as they are based at the grassroots level. “After collecting data, the women fill in standard templates after verification of the legitimacy of the claim,” says Chepkemoi. She explains: “After filling in the templates, relevant security authorities such as the police are notified.” Chepkemoi states: “This information is conveyed to the situation rooms which are fully equipped to respond to warnings from across Kenya and the rest of Africa.” Networking According to Chepkemoi, women are efficient reporters because they are fast, have sharp networking as well as listening skills and can convey information better.
We need to have a gender specific reporting so that we can understand the impact that women have and how we can further enhance this impact as well as protect them from Gender Based Violence (GBV) as they work,” Ruth Chepkemoi, Nairobi Co-ordinator Directorate of Peace Building and Conflict Management,
“Despite the efficient structure that this kind of initiative relies on, there are a number of challenges that the women face in early warning,” says Chepkemoi. One of the biggest challenges that the women face is in filling out the early warning reporting templates. According to Chepkemoi, the reporting procedure is not gender sensitive especially because most warnings come in during the night making verification difficult. Challenge
“We need to have gender specific reporting so that we can understand the impact that women have and how we can further enhance this impact as well as protect them from Gender Based Violence (GBV) as they work,” reiterates Chepkemoi. Another challenge is that women fear venturing out into areas where threats have been reported. There is also the problem of authorities at times down playing their reports as cheap gossip. Household responsibilities
also prevent women from doing their peace work well. Chepkemoi admits the challenge in the level of alerts and information sharing going down which she attributes to lack of funding. Important resource Previously, the presence of funding saw women report to security personnel using their mobile phones by sending short text messages or phone calls. Social media platforms have also been a great platform to communicate. This coupled with the limited structure within which these committees’ work has been a barrier to their success. “Sustaining and expanding the system requires funding. In particular, women field monitors have been an important resource in the collection of early warning data,” Chepkemoi explains. However, she notes that the women need remuneration for their work, the resources with which to operate and continuous
capacity building effective.
to
be
Early warning is a crucial component of the implementation of UN Security Council Resolution (UNSCR) 1888 of 2009, which calls for early warning indicators to be developed which specifically measure the risks of sexual violence being used against women in armed conflict, in order to aid prevention efforts. It is also indicates that lack of a gender perspective can result in responses that are harmful to women and increase gender inequality. Therefore, by addressing the symptoms of conflict and dealing with root causes of conflict, sustainable peace will be achieved. Perspective Entrenching a gender perspective in early warning mechanisms can be achieved through collection of information by developing gender sensitive indicators alongside the present indicators as well as increasing women’s participation in the process of collecting information. Additionally, it offers many benefits towards protection of women during and post conflict. The present exclusion of women in this process fails to indicate the measures of violence that specifically affect women.
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PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Peace committees will only work if women’s leadership is fully appreciated they were then called. Their main goal was to bring the warring parties together and ensure peace prevailed.
Theresa Thuo, who is the only woman holding position of vice chairperson in the entire county. Picture: carolyne oyugi
By Odhiambo Orlale
N
airobi County has one of the worst records in the country in terms of gender discrimination within peace committees. Out of the nine sub-county peace committees, there is no woman chair contrary to the affirmative action clause in the Constitution that there should not be more than two thirds of the same gender in appointive positions.
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In the nine sub-county peace committees made up of 15 members each, the highest ranking woman is Theresa Thuo, who is the only woman vice chairperson in the entire County. However, within all the committees there are five women. Though, this is a bare minimum, it’s in line with the two thirds gender rule. Thuo has seen and experienced a lot since the post-election violence of 2007 when she joined the peace committee as a
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volunteer. The post-election violence brought the country including Nairobi to its knees and claimed 1,300 lives leaving over 300,000 in forced displacement especially in Nairobi, Kisumu and Rift Valley. Tension At that time, tension was rife with hostility and conflict as order of the day. Thuo volunteered her time and was accepted to join the team of peace actors, as
When the political temperatures cooled down following the signing of the National Peace Accord between President Mwai Kibaki of Party of National Unity and Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) leader, Raila Odinga, brokered by former United Nations Secretary General Kofi Anan, peace committees were regularised. However, the members had to be approved by the public. Coveted seat It was during the Kamukunji polls that Thuo won the coveted seat of assistant chairperson, with Ken Ithige taking the chairperson’s position. Thuo appreciates the support she gets from the chair and the fact that he sees her as an equal in leadership. “He does not undermine me as a woman or my fellow female colleagues as we do our work,” reiterates Thuo. She adds: “However, we feel that our executive is gender blind because the chairman, secretary and treasurer are
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all men and something must be done here to address the two thirds gender principle that is entrenched in the Constitution.” Thuo was speaking during a training of peace actors organised by African Woman and Child Feature Service (AWC) on the International Day of Peace marked on September 21 every year. The day is celebrated after a United Nations General Assembly Resolution in 1981 which indicated that the day should be devoted to strengthening ideals of peace. Strive for peace This year’s theme is “Partnerships for Peace — Dignity for All” which aims at highlighting the importance of all segments of society to work together to strive for peace. However, Thuo notes that there are various challenges that they face as a committee. “Our work is not easy because even the chiefs, who are supposed to work closely with us feel threatened by the committees,” explains Thuo. She adds: “This is because some of the chiefs are part of the problem in cases of conflict over the issues of proliferation of small arms and or illicit brew.” Thuo says the committee where she sits has recognised that as a woman leader she too has a voice. They have not only allowed her to have
Our work is not easy because even the chiefs, who are supposed to work closely with us feel threatened by the committees.” Theresa Thuo, the only woman vice chairperson of a peace committee in Nairobi County.
a voice in decision-making, but also given her space to use her office effectively in and outside the formal meetings. In Kamukunji Constituency where Thuo’s peace committee is based, there are five wards which include California, Eastleigh South and North; Airbase and Uhuru Estate. “The worst affected area during the post-election violence was Kiambio slums where violence incidents were reported though no lives were lost,” Thuo recalls. Together with members of her committee, they moved in fast and addressed the problem where some people had gone to forcefully occupy people’s houses while others refused to pay rent and/or to move out. Some of these cases have not been resolved to date. “We have handled many cases of conflict in Kamukunji and some of them have made some of our chiefs feel threatened because of our success rate,” says Thuo. She notes: “We know we can resolve some of these conflicts better because we are on standby
24 hours a day and even over the weekends.” So far, one of their success stories is the case of conflict between traders at the famous Gikomba Market and youths who were hired by the national government to clean up the Nairobi River under the Kazi Kwa Vijana project in the then Office of the Prime Minister. Controversy The controversy was that the traders were dumping their trash in the river daily while the youths were mandated to keep it clean. The matter was taken up by the chief but it was a hot potato for him as the traders had a lot of money and/or support from some politicians. However, the peace committee was able to bring the two wrangling parties together and resolve the matter amicably. “The youths had wanted to use force, this would have been very ugly but we prevailed upon and reasoned with them until they agreed to allow us handle the dispute,” Thuo recalls. Other activities they have
to create awareness around peace include holding road shows as well as cultural and musical events. The aim is to unite the residents. They also have special sessions to address the problem of radicalisation of youth by terrorists groups like the Al Shabaab. Successful The anti-radicalisation programme and public meetings in the past six months have been successful, going by the turnout of religious leaders from both Muslim and Christian communities, and the youths who have volunteered to be helped. Says Thuo: “Our regular meetings with Imams and church leaders plus the radicalised youths have been fruitful.” She notes: “We have had a number of them come forth and seek our help.” According to Thuo, a Deputy County Commissioner, George Natembei, who was working with them very well was promoted to be the Isiolo County Commissioner. “We believe it was because of his good work with our peace committee that he received the promotion,” she observes. On the way forward, Thuo says there is a big space for women to fill and a role to play in the peace committees. She urges women to be more aggressive and assertive.
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PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Youth band during International Day of Peace at Ahero town in Kisumu County. Picture: odhiambo alal
International Day of Peace celebrations in Kisumu County. Picture: odhiambo alal
Part of the crowd that participated in a three -day 60 kilometre peace walk to mark
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International Peace Day in Kuria East sub-
Mary Chepkwony, Deputy Director Rural Women Peace Link, during the
county, Migori county. Picture: miller omega
interview on her experience with radio talk shows. Picture: daniel were
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PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
A procession to mark International Day of Peace in Kitale, Trans Nzoia County. Picture: valine moraa
Trans Nzoia County bodaboda operators during the International Day of Peace celebrations. Picture: valine moraa
A procession of peace actors in Uasin Gishu County during the World Peace Day. Picture: Paul Omole, PIK community activist,
robert kituyi
addressing participants during the commemoration of International Day of Peace in Migori County. Picture: christine ogutu special issue: Talking PEACE 21
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Bodaboda operators take part in a procession to mark International Day of Peace in Trans Nzoia County. Picture: valine moraa
Bodaboda operators stand tall as agents of change in a peaceful society By Abisai Amugune
I
nternational Day of Peace, also known informally as World Peace Day celebration was organized by the Rural Women Peace Link (RWPL) under the Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) project in Trans Nzoia County. The PIK project is being implemented under the leadership of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in partnership with local organisations such as
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Rural Women Peace Link (RWPL) which is heading north rift counties of Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Trans Nzoia. In a unique innovation of creating awareness around peace, Rural Women Peace Link treated the motorcycle riders, who go by the name bodaboda operators, as chief guests. This was the first time bodaboda operators were being involved in peace celebrations. Rural Women Peace Link (RWPL) found it important to involve the motorcycle
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riders after realizing that most operators who had been accused for being perpetrators of insecurity were the ones who were now talking peace.
recognises bodaboda operators are a critical mass of people who can inspire change considering what they do in the transport sector.
Peace negotiators
“This is why during this year’s International Day of Peace celebration we decided to put them at the frontline including having them wearing branded Tee-shirts with a message of peace,” explained Were. He added: “We recognise they have a role to play in addressing Gender Based Violence (GBV) which is a component of peace
Speaking at Kitale Museum where the celebrations culminated, Daniel Were, Communication and Documentation Officer at RWPL noted that many bodaboda operators in Trans Nzoia County had transformed to peace negotiators. Were noted that RWPL
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
building.” Were explained: “We are trying to build their capacity and confidence as agents of change because most of the time they are perceived as notorious perpetrators of GBV and crime.” He added: “We want to change the negative perceptions unlike before when they were looked down upon as mere criminals.” Vilified The celebrations in Trans Nzoia, which brought in different communities and organisations, were held in line with International Day of Peace theme: Partnerships for Peace-Dignity for All which aims at highlighting the importance of all segments of society to work together, without discrimination to strive for peace. This is why RWPL has taken a special interest in the bodaboda operators who are mainly vilified for being perpetrators of GBV and insecurity.
the county had set aside a special fund where small traders including bodaboda operators benefitted. “In the department of Commerce, Trade and Industry, we have established several markets and the Nawiri Fund to support our small scale traders including bodaboda teams,” said Khaemba. He added: “We have also established a KSh61 million Women and Youth Fund to be disbursed to 24 groups in each ward.” Khaemba said among the women and youths, they had built the capacity of over 800 groups to enable them apply the acquired skills in gainful enterprises.
He said youth in Trans Nzoia County should open up to opportunities in national government infrastructure projects. At the same time Khaemba challenged everyone in the county to step forward and preach peace daily. Preach peace In reference to the Day of Peace theme, Khaemba said: “In the spirit of partnerships for peace and dignity for all, let me challenge civil society organisations and local businessmen to step forward each day to preach peace in all their undertakings.” He added: “I look forward
According to Isaac Kalua, chairman Motorcycle Assembly Association of Kenya (MAAK) the bodaboda industry has created more than 100,000 job opportunities which returned KSh2.2 billion to the taxman in 2014. “There are 500,000 motorbikes on Kenyan roads doing commercial business with riders making KSh400 million from ferrying people daily.” Kalua also observed that operators faced challenges of training and cohesion that would help in making the industry free of crime. Reaping peace At the Kitale Museum, speaker after speaker extolled the virtues of reaping peace as played by community based and non– governmental organizations as well as churches, women and youth groups at various levels.
The Peace Initiative Kenya project, building up on this theme, creates awareness on GBV prevention and response to ensure that peace is realised from the domestic level. In a speech read on his behalf by Gaudensia Nakhungu, Secretary to the Public Service, Trans Nzoia Governor Patrick Khaemba, noted the importance of young people including bodaboda operators in the peace agenda. He said
to seeing increased peace and cohesion in our county, country and world at large.”
Trans-Nzoia County Public Service Secretary Gaudensia Nakhungu addressing those who graced the International Peace Day celebrations at the Kitale Museum. Picture abisai amugune
Augustine Kituyi, patron of the umbrella of the bodaboda organizations in Trans Nzoia County, said they had nearly 10,000 members. “I appreciate the recognition of bodaboda operators to this event,” said Kituyi. He added: “We have not only taken part in the global celebration as invited guests but also as participants and stakeholders in peacebuilding.”
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PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Unity in ethnic diversity in Trans Nzoia County
She added: “Some of them are still sick while others have since died and many children were rendered homeless.” Trans Nzoia County Governor Patrick Khaemba, in a speech read by Gaudensia Nakhungu, Secretary to the Public Service noted that despite the diversity of ethnic groups in the county, they were still able to live peacefully. Relate peacefully “God has brought all tribes in Trans Nzoia County for our own good. We are able to relate peacefully and happily. Let no one divide us at any given time,” said Khaemba.
A procession to mark International Peace Day in Trans Nzoia County. Picture valine moraa
By Abisai Amugune
O
n September 21, 2015 Immaculate Shamalla woke up to a bright morning on the outskirts of the Mt Elgon to yet another busy day of her normal schedule. Instead of reporting for duty in her office situated within Kitale town overlooking Mt. Elgon, Shamalla was preparing herself for a big day on the world calendar. Together with members of the Trans–Nzoia Women Caucus (TWC), Shamalla
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as the group’s coordinator led them in joining peaceful Bodaboda operators who were taking part in a procession along the streets of Kitale. This was to mark the International Day of Peace celebrations at the Kitale Museum. International Day of Peace, also known informally as World Peace Day, celebrations was organized by the Rural Women Peace Link (RWPL) under the Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) project which is implemented in partnership with local organisations
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with RWPL heading north rift counties of Uasin Gishu, Nandi and Trans Nzoia. Suffered the most The women’s caucus, bodaboda operators and civil society organisations joined hands with the county and national governments in line with the day’s theme Partnerships for Peace — Dignity for All. “Women and children suffered the most in the post-election violence of 2007. At least 300 women were raped,” Shamalla said.
He added: “Our diversity is our strength. Let’s work together for a strong economy which will build our peace levels.” In reference to the Bill of Rights chapter in the Constitution of Kenya 2010, Khaemba noted that it’s crucial to respect all provisions of the law so that Gender Based Violence and all manners of atrocities become extinct. “Let’s enhance our understanding of each other. Let’s protect our social fabric to promote the welfare of our society.” Khaemba observed that peace plays a great role in governance. “We cannot rule under strife; development cannot prosper under conflict. It’s only a robust
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economy that will raise the living standards of our people,” Khaemba said. He reiterated: “When resources are limited, conflict is rife because everyone seeks to get a piece of the small cake.” According to Khaemba, the role of the government in promoting cohesion is to create adequate wealth for its people. Build cohesion “We aim to build cohesion and peace through celebration of our cultural diversities,” reiterated the governor, who is also planning a county prayer breakfast meeting. He stressed: “Peace is not absence of war. With destruction of nature we shall be in pain. Let’s protect our environment for long term peace.” Speaking on behalf of the women, Shamalla reiterated that peace remains an important aspect for the region. She recalled the Mabanga Peace Accord of 2011 which was signed following protracted civil strife in the region. Shamalla particularly signalled out ethnic rivalry that was playing out between the Bukusu, Sabaot and Teso communities. She noted that even the other local smaller communities were involved in the peace negations. She lamented that a lot of propaganda about the Mabanga Peace Accord should be demystified so
The youths should lead in walking the talk. There can be no sustainable peace until the youth agenda is set first, Immaculate Shamalla, Trans–Nzoia Women Caucus (TWC) co-ordinator
that all the 43 communities residing in the region “feel devolved”. “The youths should lead in walking the talk. There can be no sustainable peace until the youth agenda is set first,” said Shamala. She urged the Trans Nzoia County Government to put in place peace mechanisms as the country approaches the General Election in 2017. The residents of Trans Nzoia County were all in agreement that since signing of the Mabanga Peace Agreement witnessed by former Vice President Kalonzo Musyoka, the region had witnessed a relative peace except for a few criminal activities of cattle rustling. Equitable distribution According to Rueben Butaki, chairman Sabaot Supreme Council of Elders, the Peace Accord which talked of equitable distribution of resources and sharing of public positions by local communities had yet to be fully implemented by governments of Trans Nzoia and Bungoma counties.
However, Butaki was happy to note that discrimination had reduced and the Sabaots had been included in some of the top positions in the public sector in the two counties. For example, Henry ole Ndiema was elected the Trans Nzoia County Senator in 2013 and Dr Robert Pukose became the first elected Sabaot Member of Parliament (MP) in Trans Nzoia County representing Endebess Constituency. A member of the Nandi community Dr. Stanley Tarus came alongside Governor Patrick Khaemba as his deputy. According to Mzee Pius arap Kauka, a Sabaot elder, the Mabanga Peace Accord was in effect during and after the 2013 General Election which were peaceful unlike the previous polls which were characterized by chaos and tribal turmoil. For Bungoma County, Jane Chebet who is a Sabaot was elected the Deputy Speaker of the County Assembly while her kinsman Hilary Changwon came in as the deputy governor to Kenneth Lusaka. Trans
Nzoia
County
chairman of civil society organisations Reverend Raymond Mutama acknowledged the role Free Pentecostal Fellowship of Kenya (FPFK) had played in bringing together the warring communities prior to the 2013 polls. Mutama urged other nongovernmental organizations promoting peace to emulate FPFK under the steer of Festus Mukoya, to lead the residents towards harmony and integrity ahead of the 2017 polls. Local patriots Pastor Ferdinand Wanyisia asked the Trans Nzoia County government to set aside the Heroes Day for the local patriots adding that funds should be dispensed fast for the local elders to conduct peace rallies before the next General Election. However, Khaemba said there was already a Bill in the County Assembly in relation to Heroes Day. “In relation to the Trans Nzoia Heroes Day, there is a Bill in the National Assembly which we will incorporate to suit our setting,” said Kahemba. Reverend Fred Wanyonyi of the Peace, Cohesion and Integration Commission said the importance of peace was only realized at the times of war and called on Kenyans to exercise forgiveness in the search of continuous peace.
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Youth engaged in peace building activities in Narok and Migori counties receives an award during the International Day of Peace. Picture: CHRISTINE OGUTU
Civil society organizations urged to foster peace in communities
commemoration of the International Day of Peace, which was organized by Peace Initiative Kenya in partnership with other stakeholders, Oloo urged both national and county governments to establish and strengthen community structures that will adequately prevent and respond to cases of GBV in the country including Narok and Migori counties. Resolution
By Christine Ogutu
P
eace is the absence of war or conflict and when it is absent lives are lost and properties destroyed with millions of lives lost.
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violence (GBV) are being urged to forge partnerships to foster peaceful societies.
However, for peace to prevail, efforts must be combined across individuals, communities, organisations and governments for sustainable calm to prevail. This is because peace remains the essence of human existence.
Leonard Oloo, Chief Executive Officer Rural Aids Prevention and Development Organization (RAPADO), an implementing partner of the Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) project, is challenging organizations to mobilize partners to foster social progress that will in turn create just and peaceful societies.
Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for this reason that civil society organizations working on gender based
Speaking in Kengonga High School, Migori County during the
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Olooâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s advice is in line with why the United Nations passed a resolution to celebrate International Day of Peace. The United Nations in calling for the marking of the International Day of Peace recognises that peace and its work would not be possible without the initial partnerships that were active in its creation and the thousands of partnerships each year between governments, civil society, the private sector, faith-based groups and other nongovernmental organizations that are needed to support the Organization
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in achieving its future goals. The UN was created to promote international cooperation and achieve peace and security. Oloo noted that RAPADO through PIK project has been working with the county government, Judiciary, Kenya Police Service, civil society organizations, religious leaders and health practitioners as well as the education department to advocate against Gender Based Violence as a means of achieving a peace. Made efforts “Through the Peace Initiative Kenya project, RAPADO has made efforts towards establishing and strengthening community structures to adequately prevent and respond to GBV in Migori County,” explained Oloo. He reiterated that through various community structures, the organization has been able to engage at large with its constituents on gender mainstreaming and GBV referral pathways.
in peace building initiatives. Sustainable peace is not only marked absence by war, it’s about the absence of violence generally including Gender Based Violence. It entails zero tolerance to peace in the households and within communities as well as across states and nations. This is because without peace there can be no sustainable development, and without development there can be no sustainable peace and every one, men and women, young men and young women as well as boys and girls must be made aware on the importance of keeping and building peace. “There is also need to create more awareness and empower youth and women on GBV to decrease their vulnerability to violence,” said Oloo. He observed: “This is important because they are part of the largest generation who hold the key to the development of a society.”
According to Oloo, “there is need for development partners to make greater investments in realizing the contributions they make towards achieving peace”. Strategic plan A notable stride in Migori County is the development of a strategic plan on Gender Based Violence and gender mainstreaming by the Gender Technical Working Group (GTWG) in which RAPADO is a stakeholder. The five year plan provides an operational framework for the implementation of priority Gender Based Violence programmes and activities. It provides guidance on how to ensure gender responsive steps are reflected in all the policies, programmes, processes and activities so that gender equality is achieved in the county. Oloo reiterated that the plan also lays a foundation
“This has created an avenue to strengthen the capacity of community activists, grassroots women, paralegals and educational institutions in handling cases of GBV both at home and community level,” he said. Oloo emphasized that in order to attain sustainable peace, there is need to involve both the youth and women
Migori County residents take part in a dance to mark the International Day of Peace celebrations in Kuria sub-county.
to the formulation of county specific laws and policies that would aid in addressing GBV. “The strategic plan lays procedures that aid in domesticating national GBV policies and legislations at the county level,” explained Oloo. Echoing Oloo’s sentiments, Cornelius Wamalwa, Kuria East Deputy County Commissioner, called on communities to work with duty bearers in addressing cattle-rustling that has for a long time been the cause of conflict in the region. Community policing “Many firearms are still in the wrong arms and hence the increasing cases of cattle thefts that have for a long time affected the livelihoods of Trans Mara and Kuria communities,” explained Wamalwa. He noted: “It, therefore, calls for the spirit of community policing to facilitate the disarmament process as well as encourage reconciliation between the affected communities.” Wamalwa observed that for peace to prevail all the organs of the community have to commit to creating change. He urged the community from the larger Migori and Narok counties to celebrate their diversity and honour the role that each and every member of society plays in the development of a peaceful society.
PicturE: CHRISTINE OGUTU
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PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
Talking tents a boost to Baraza’s peace building efforts provided a unique social platform where survivors could meet and interact with each other. Scores of people affected by the violence would come together and share their stories with other survivors. “This helped them to know they were not alone,” Baraza explains. The talking tents became a household name and attracted women who were hard hit by the violence. “The women recounted harrowing ordeals both at the Jamhuri Showground and in their homes where they had been forcefully ejected,” she explains. Rachel Baraza, a peace champion in Nairobi County. Picture: christine ogutu
Established at the height of the 2007 post-election violence, the talking tents provided a unique social platform where survivors could meet and interact with each other. By Faith Muiruri
W
omen’s role and contribution towards peaceful societies remain as important as the peace itself. Many women have been lauded for coming up with various innovations and initiatives 28
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that are directed at peace building and these have not disappointed because in the end they have promoted social justice and cohesion. One such innovation is the talking tents. When Rachel Baraza conceived the idea of the talking tents, she had not anticipated that the initiative would propel her into the greater heights of peace building. Established at the height of the 2007 post-election violence, the talking tents
According to Baraza, majority of them were raped because men fled leaving the women and children behind. Moved by their plight, she managed to mobilize the various religious leaders and together they approached the provincial administration which gave them a go ahead to establish additional tents outside the District Commissioner’s office in Kibera. Diversity According to Baraza, the talking tents served to build peace and promote ethnic diversity in Kibera where interethnic fighting left dozens of
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
people dead and scores of others injured in rampant incidents of beatings and rape in the slum. Baraza was speaking during a training held in Nairobi for women peace champions by African Woman and Child Feature Service (AWC). The training held on the International Day of Peace looked at the role of women in peace and security under the United Nations (UN) Security Resolutions 1325 and 1820. The International Day of Peace is commemorated through education and public awareness on issues related to peace. The women’s training workshop sought to increase the effectiveness, appreciation, participation and role of women and girls in peace, security and development processes at the national and county government levels as key to preventing and reducing vulnerability to and impact of conflict on women’s and girls’ wellbeing and development. It also addressed the issue of women’s participation in peace processes and decisionmaking by ensuring that peace and security processes at the national and county governments are inclusive and recognise the role and place of women in such processes. According to Baraza they would meet every week and survivors would come, share their experiences, in a process that also served to
Women are effective in policing because they know identity of most of the criminals within the community, “They work well with the police by providing them with vital information.” Rachel Baraza, a peace champion in Nairobi County
heal. The talking tents proved powerful and men from the Nubian community also begun taking part in them. “The talking became therapeutic and people were able to forgive each other and heal as they realized that other people really cared,” says Baraza. She adds: “Those affected benefitted from psycho-social support and were compensated by the Government to rebuild their lives.” The talking tents became a household name and helped to enrich Baraza’s role in building intercultural understanding in the sprawling Kibera slums. Initiative She notes: “Both men and women from warring communities begun working together to create a more peaceful and secure society.” The initiative did not go unnoticed and other groups offered to support Baraza and her team. The Change
Agents Peace Initiative (CAPI) told them to bring together all the people who had been affected by violence. “CAPI supported us to venture into income generating activities that helped the affected families to rebuild their lives. We would bring old clothes which the group would use to make beddings for sale,” explains Baraza. She notes: “Part of the money went towards supporting Network activities and individual members.” Baraza was also nominated by CAPI to attend a peace forum in Burundi to share on how Kenyan women were able to overcome the violence. The meeting also had delegates from Congo, Rwanda and Uganda. The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) also supported the group and about 80 people were trained on mitigating against Sexual and Gender Based Violence.
This initiative also served to secure Baraza’s membership in the District Peace Committee in 2009. Through her peace work she has also been nominated to serve in National Authority for Campaign Against Drug and Alcohol Abuse (NACADA). Baraza has been very instrumental in preaching peace in Kibera and has been hosting meetings where women have intimated that they were being raped by their own husbands, physically assaulted at night but they had nowhere to go. Support groups “If they report to the administration including the chief, the man is arrested and released the next day,” says Baraza. She adds: “However, I have been able to link them with support groups and organizations that provide psycho-social support and helped them seek justice.” Baraza has also taken it upon herself to address the rift between landlords and tenants and train communities on civil rights, water and sanitation as well as how they can coexist peacefully. “Women are effective in policing because they know identity of most of the criminals within the community,” says Baraza. “They work well with the police by providing them with vital information.”
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Valentine Njeru Munene, youngest member of Nairobi county Peace Committee. Picture: CAROLYNE OYUGI
Promoting peace transcends all age groups By Carolyne Oyugi
W
hen I met Va le nt i ne Munene she was seated amongst other women working on peace issues in Nairobi County. I assumed that she was an intern who would eventually go back to school. Her small body would easily make her pass for a high school student. However, when she started
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talking on why and how more women should be involved in the peace committees, she spoke with authority and made a lot of sense too, her words making her bigger than her body. Munene was speaking at a training workshop organised by African Woman and Child Feature Service (AWCFS) for women leaders from around Nairobi County. The women were being trained
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on conflict mitigation and peace building as the world marked the 2015 International Day of Peace. Part of the training involved building the women’s leadership skills, creating awareness, and enhancing the knowledge of women and girls for them to be able to participate in a more meaningful way in conflict mitigation, conflict resolution, peace building and reconstruction. Munene,
a
self-
accomplished woman who has been fighting for peace ever since she was in high school says: “When I was in high school in Murang’a County, I noticed that girls would stay home longer when they were sent home for school fees.” She adds: “I later learnt that many households were child headed after being orphaned by HIV and AIDS, and that girls were simply being discriminated on by the pure fact that they are girls.” Munene was also concerned with the high number of youth who are involved in drugs and the jiggers’ infestation problem that afflicted Murang’a County. “When youth are involved in drugs, naturally the crime rate goes up because they
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
have no time to go to school and lack a means of earning an income,” she says. In 2004 while in Form Three, Munene took on the challenge to raise awareness on HIV and AIDS. One of the challenges involved running for 32 kilometres from Sabasaba to Murang’a town. However, she did this for four years and was forced to stop running in 2009 after being involved in a road accident.
I later learnt that many households were child headed after being orphaned by HIV and AIDS, and that girls were simply being discriminated on by the pure fact that they are girls.” Valentine Njeru Munene, the youngest member of Nairobi County Peace Committee
Drugs and crimes
represented Kenya in youth athletic championships and others are practicing in Iten, Nandi County, with junior athletes,” explains Munene.
After high school, Munene moved to Umoja II Estate in Nairobi County. Here, things were not any different. Umoja II Estate is located in Embakasi Constituency which is known as one of the areas in Nairobi where many youth are involved in drugs and crime.
“Being a peace mediator is not easy, one has to be dedicated to her work because many cases come during odd hours even at midnight,” says Munene. She adds: “It even gets harder if you work in the area where you grew up.” Solve cases
“I have seen many youth who I grew up with waste their lives on drugs. This contributes to insecurity in the area,” says Munene, adding she does not like what is happening around her.
Many of Munene’s childhood friends are now matatu touts and “as usual matatu wrangles never end”. Munene has had to solve cases between friends. She has also been forced to deal with Gender Based Violence (GBV) cases.
It’s for these reasons that she was motivated to start the East End Stars Sports Club. The Club is a Community Based Organisation that engages young people in sporting activities while in the process preaching peace and training them on income generating activities among other life skills. “Three of our members have
She observes that the work also comes with a lot of challenges. Being a single parent has been used against her several times when solving domestic violence and GBV cases. “Some people don’t have confidence in me simply because I’m a single parent.”
However, Munene is not discouraged because she knows how important it is to maintain peace being a survivor of the 2007postelection violence. “I was married to a man from another tribe and so when ethnic differences arose as a result of the elections I was sent packing out of my matrimonial home.” This was not easy to overcome for Munene as a young woman who was newly married and with a toddler. A public relations graduate from the University of Nairobi, Munene believes peace keeping is a calling. She explains: “Peace does not stand on its own. Many aspects of life have to be in their right place for a society to be peaceful,” says Munene who is also involved in the distribution of free condoms. “People don’t understand how this relates to peace. However, until the time that we can plan on when
and how many times to be pregnant it will be hard to achieve peace,” she explains. Munene reiterates: “It is hard to preach abstinence to grown-ups but at least they should protect themselves from diseases and avoid unwanted pregnancies.” According to Munene, crime rate soars when criminals have families to support. It is these same children who end up going into the streets. When given an option of when to be pregnant, people become more responsible when they become parents. Together with their area chief, Munene is also involved in the fight against illicit brews. Domestic violence “Illicit brews have been a major contributor to domestic violence, GBV and people neglecting their responsibilities in the society.” At 28 years old, Munene is known all over Embakasi West Sub-county and the local administration recognize her work. They call on her whenever they have cases that are better handled by a young adult. This has given her more confidence in her work. She now calls upon more young people to come up and support projects that promote peace and keep off violence.
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Turning the tide: Creating awareness through radio talk shows for sustainable peace Cooperation (KBC) and Pwani FM both of which broadcast in Swahili. Other radio stations that offered a platform for dialogue on peace and GBV included Radio Nam Lolwe (Dholuo), Radio Kitwek (Kalenjin) and Minto FM (Gusii).
Mary Chepkwony, Deputy Director Rural Women Peace Link, giving account of her experience in radio talk shows.Picture: VALINE MORAA
By Valine Moraa
R
adio remains a powerful medium for reaching large numbers of people, especially those at the grassroots level. Radio as a channel of communication, plays a significant role in spreading information, raising awareness, promoting dialogue and debate on issues of concern as well as providing a platform to express needs, opinions and aspirations.
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It is for this reason that the International Rescue Committee (IRC) and African Woman and Child Feature Service (AWC) under the auspices of the Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) project reaches out to and collaborates with various mainstream and community radio stations to educate and create awareness on Gender Based Violence (GBV) and peace. One of the moments that the two organisations seized to impact on communities and society at large is the International Day of Peace
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which was celebrated on September 21 of every year. The day provided an opportunity for PIK partners to utilize this medium of communication strategically. Various PIK project implementing partners took part in radio talk shows to reach out to the public on the importance of fostering and maintaining peace. The shows were aired in various vernacular radio stations located at both county and national levels including Radio Taifa of Kenya Broadcasting
According to Mary Chepkwony, Deputy Director Rural Women Peace Link (RWPL), a PIK partner organization that covers Nandi, Uasin Gishu and Trans Nzoia counties, one needs to prepare fully and be on time when taking part in a radio talk show. Peace champions Chepkwony, who is also a peace champion, was on air with Radio Kitwek and says that the live show is good because it’s interactive and allows the public to call in and send text via Short Messages Service (SMS) to get insight on conflict and peace as well as the importance of marking the World Peace Day. “Majority of those who called during the show did not know that September 21 is a day set aside in the world to promote peace,” explains Chepkwony. She adds: “The public also wanted to know why Kenyans mark the day and I was able to inform
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
them that it is celebrated to enhance the need for maintaining peace.” According to Chepkwony, experiences such as the 1992 ethnic clashes and postelection violence of 2007 have made Kenyans realise the importance of keeping peace. Chepkwony recalls how a caller from Bomet County, only identified as Dr Wycliffe, wanted to know why she was talking about peace but as a country we are constantly experiencing conflict. Educate children “He wanted to know how we can have sustainable peace,” says Chepkwony. “I responded that we need to talk and educate our children about peace so that they can understand the causes and effects of conflict,” explains Chepkwony. She added: “Without peace there will be no development in the country, poverty will continue, lives and property will be lost. It’s important we come out strongly as a family and communities to say no to conflict.” Recalling those who were able to interact with her live on radio, Chepkwony says Wesley Bett from Kericho County wanted to know why “when we experience Sexual and Gender Based Violence cases some village elders and chiefs accept bribes to hinder justice for the survivors and thus not promoting peace.
“He wanted to know what should be done when such incidences occur,” recalls Chepkwony. She explains: “I responded that in such cases one is required to go to the relevant authorities and report so that action can be taken against the persons who gave out and received the bribe, as well as the perpetrator of the violence.” Chepkwony informed the radio caller that “not reporting these crimes enhances their continuity and as a result, promotes conflict”. Kosgei, calling from Uasin Gishu County, highlighted a political conflict that is currently being experienced in the country. A politician is reported to have confessed to fixing another politician in crimes against humanity at the International Criminal Court, and he wanted to know what actions a peace builder should take to address such a claim. Chepkwony responded: “This is a serious claim and it is not up to a peace builder or the citizens to take matters in to their own hands. It is for the law enforcement agents to handle the issue in accordance to the law. Our role is to ensure that we do not allow politics to divide us and cause conflict.” From Kisumu County, Pastor Job Odindo, a community activist with PIK project, was on the Radio Nam Lolwe talk show. According to Odondi, the one and a half hour
interactive show held to mark the International Day of Peace had callers from Kisumu, Siaya, Bondo and Homa Bay. According to Odindo, the main message was a call to all Kenyans to ensure peace is maintained inside and outside the home and to end Gender Based Violence. Major hindrance The PIK project advances Gender Based Violence as a social issue that is a major hindrance to sustainable peace. Statistics indicate that one in every five women has experienced one form of violence. Violence against women and girls is a major threat to sustainable peace because it compromises their health, security, dignity, and autonomy. “Reduction of Gender Based Violence especially against women and children can only be attained if there is peace inside and outside our homes,” reiterated Odondi. Dialogue
During the talk shows, the speakers emphasized the need for dialogue so as to resolve conflict in an amicable manner. The callers also commended the partnership between PIK project and the radio stations for airing the shows to promote peace and raise awareness on Gender Based Violence. They urged radio producers to continuously hold such
talk shows, which informs and educates the public, and helps them make informed decisions. A research by IpsosSynovate indicates that radio remains the most popular news source for most Kenyans at 93 percent. The research further reveals that 70 percent of radio audiences listen to Swahili stations compared with 68 percent and 52 percent for vernacular and English broadcasting stations respectively. Similarly, a country report titled Mapping Digital Media: Kenya reveals that radio remains the biggest source of news for a majority of Kenyans, because it is affordable and reaches even the remotest parts of the country. According to the report, the fact that only about 30 percent of Kenya is connected to an electricity supply means most people cannot power such media as television and computers. It also states that a sizeable number of people in Kenya read newspapers as 50 percent of people live below poverty line and can hardly afford to buy a newspaper given that the average cost is KSh40. Through the radio talk shows, PIK project has reached five million listeners in the nine counties where it’s implemented. With radio being popular among Kenyans, it remains an important medium for peace building conversations and fighting to end vices like GBV.
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Enhancing women’s confidence for effective peace building
As a member of the peace committee her work is to monitor issues that can trigger conflict and report to the Nairobi County Peace Committee as an early warning. However, there are many times when she has to mediate and bring solution to the problems reported to her. “Mwiki is notorious for defilement cases. Our children are no longer safe here,” says Ndirangu giving an example of a notorious rapist who used to roam around freely raping women and defiling children. “Every time the man was arrested he would be released because his mother was rich and influential,” Ndirangu explains. Stayed behind bars
Lucy Ndirangu, a member of the Kasarani Sub-County Peace Committee. Picture: CAROLINE OYUGI
By Carolyne Oyugi
N
airobi County, just like many other parts of the country has many security issues to deal with. Amongst the causes of insecurity are landlordtenant disagreements when it comes to rent payment, Sexual and Gender
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Based Violence (SGBV) as well as robbery due to unemployment. However, still within the County some areas are known for specific causes of conflict. For example, the sprawling Kibera slum is known for land disputes while Mwiki in Kasarani Sub-county was recently identified by Nairobi
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County Peace Committee as a hot spot for defilement. Sleepless nights It’s the cases in Mwiki that are giving Lucy Ndirangu sleepless nights, being a member of the Kasarani Sub-county Peace Committee which cover’s Mwiki area.
After experiencing this four times, they decided enough is enough. She organized a group of women and together they ensured that this time the man stayed behind bars. “We are happy to share that the man was sentenced to 15 years in jail for defiling a child,” she says with a smile. Ndirangu whose father was a chief says that women have to fight for positions in the peace committees and not be left out. “When you struggle for a position and get it, it comes with authority. People have no otherwise but to respect you hence you can make
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
positive change,” she says. Ndirangu was speaking during a training of women who sit in peace committees organised by African Woman and Child Feature Service (AWC) on the role of women in peace and security. This training also coincided with the International Day of Peace which is marked globally every September 21. One of the key pillars of the training of women was on their participation in peace processes and decision-making by ensuring the peace and security processes at the national and county governments are inclusive and recognise the role and place of women in such processes. This is also in line with the Tenets of the International Day of Peace Unlike many peace committees around the country, Kasarani Subcounty has attained the two thirds gender representation in the executive positions. The chair is a man but the secretary and treasurer are both women. Be involved According to Ndirangu, peace cannot stand on its own. “When you are a peace champion, you have to be involved in so many issues that may trigger conflict,” she notes. “I usually find myself involved in reporting rape, robbery, wife battering or solving domestic violence,” Ndirangu says.
When you are a peace champion, you have to be involved in so many issues that may trigger conflict,”
Lucy Ndirangu, a member of the Kasarani sub-county Peace Committtee.
She is also concerned by the way women are not coming up strongly to take their position in the society. “Women are known to hold their families together and ensure that peace prevails and the same skill can be applied when promoting peace,” says Ndirangu. She observes: “We stay with our children longer than their fathers solving disputes amongst siblings.” However, Ndirangu is disappointed that women still shy away from applying the same courage and skills in public office. At times when they hold elections, she says, women don’t come up to vie for the important positions. According to Ndirangu, they would rather go for positions that they feel are ‘soft’ enough for women. However, according to the tenets of the International Day of Peace theme “Partnerships for Peace — Dignity for All”, it’s important for all segments of society to work together to strive for peace. The UN Security Resolution, which was a landmark ruling on peace and security passed
in October 2000, reaffirms the important role of women in the prevention and resolution of conflicts, peace negotiations, peacebuilding, peacekeeping, humanitarian response and post-conflict reconstruction. Equal participation The Security Resolution 1325 stresses the importance of women’s equal participation and full involvement in all efforts for the maintenance and promotion of peace and security. Resolution 1325 urges all actors to increase the participation of women and incorporate gender perspectives in all peace and security efforts. Ndirangu attributes lack of women representation in executive positions in peace committees to lack of confidence. “I know women who cannot express themselves in public and that is why we encourage each other,” she says. In order to deal with some of the security issues affecting women directly, Ndirangu managed to
bring together 450 women from around Kasarani and formed a group in the 2013. This group has been instrumental in pushing for agendas in their area. Follow up cases “Numbers can work wonders at times. We have used this group to follow up on cases in court, or with the chief and it works better than working as an individual,” she explains. Ndirangu is happy about the successes they have achieved but also admits that there are many challenges too. One of the challenges is the common stereotype that women should not be aggressive while they are amongst men. She is also not happy about the way police handle rape cases. “A rape survivor is usually already traumatized by the time she arrives at the police station but some police officers will be insensitive asking them questions that traumatise them further.” Ndirangu would like to see the Government provide fully equipped gender desks at police stations complete with a trained officer who is sensitive to the issues. She also wants more people to be trained on how to handle such cases before reporting to the relevant authorities so that evidence is not destroyed.
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Traditional dancers at Kegonga Primary School, Kuria East, where International Peace Day celebrations were held. Picture: MILLER OMEGA
Sixty kilometre walk raises peace awareness across three counties By Miller Omega
C
reating awareness around the need to have a peaceful society free of all forms of violence has always remains a global, national and regional challenge. This is because peace affects one right from the household level and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s this that escalates up to the global level. This year, the International Day of Peace was celebrated on September 21 and throughout the world, and within the country various initiatives were
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carried out to spread the gospel of peace. In 1981, the United Nations General Assembly, which is composed of all heads of governments, decided to have the day devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace, both within and among all nations and peoples. Grassroots Under the theme, Partnerships for Peace-Dignity for All, the day was celebrated with local organisations taking the message down to the grassroots level.
In Migori County, Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) implementing partner Rural Aids Prevention and Development Organisation (RAPADO) decided to hold the International Day of Peace celebrations in Kegonga town. Here, hundreds of people from three warring communities along the borders of Narok and Migori counties participated in a peace walk to mark what is also known informally as the World Peace Day. The three day walk covered
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
over 60 kilometres and started in Ang’ata Kendege in Trans Mara West subcounty, Narok County before moving to Ntimaru town in Kuria East, Migori county. The procession then moved through Getongoroma area and finally ended at Kegonga Primary School where the day was marked with pomp. The area where awareness on peaceful co-existence was being raised covers three warring communities of Kipsigis, Maasai and Kuria. Efforts were also made to bring peace between warring Abanyabasi and Abairege clans of the Kuria community. Awarness “The walk raised a certain level of awareness for peace and bring to an end conflict and wars which are mainly caused by border dispute and cattle rustling,” said Castro Barasa, Migori County Peace Coordinator.
escalate in January after the communities have circumcised their young men,” Omole explained. Benjamin Mauko, Kuria East Education Officer said constant cases of conflict have mostly affected women and children. He blamed the conflict for poor education performance in the area. Mauko said in 2012 the Government had to close schools in Kuria area after Abanyabasi and Abairege clans violently clashed ahead of the General Election. “The animosity was so high that the Government had to organise education events like games, joint examinations and music festivals separately between the two clans for fear of
further attack,” recalled.
Mauko
He said each function started with coded messages where crowds would ask “tuko aje hapa? (How are we here)”. “Silence as a reply meant both clans were around and this was a pointer that conflict could be triggered easily while a positive reply meant incitement could be carried out,” Mauko explained. Escalated
Kipkemoi Chelule, officerin-charge of Getongoroma Anti-Stock Theft Unit Centre, said before they were stationed in the area, cases of conflict often escalated out of hand.
According to Paul Omole who is the Programme Coordinator Partnerships and Advocacy at Rural Aids Prevention and Development Organisation (RAPADO), apart from the peace walk, there was dialogue between opinion shapers, boda boda operators, youth, elders and public administrators from both communities in an effort to boost peace. “We chose this place as the best area to tackle conflicts which often
Leonard Oloo, Executive Director RAPADO, addressing participants during International Day of Peace held at
“Husbands used to sleep away from their homes for fear of being attacked or as they engaged in banditry activities of raiding cattle from other communities,” Chelule said. Ever since the centre was established, Chelule said they have seen many illegal arms being surrendered and cases of conflict quickly tackled before they escalated. “When there was conflict, many husbands never came home and their safety was never known, nowadays there is peace even at home because wives know where their husbands are,” Chelule explained. Speakers at the Day of Peace event also urged the communities to refrain from Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and also help bring to end cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the area. The event was held under the Peace Initiative Kenya (PIK) project in partnership with other stakeholders. The project is headed by International Rescue Committee (IRC) and implemented in partnership with local organizations operating in the nine counties of Migori, Kisii, Kisumu, Uasin Gishu, Nandi, Trans Nzoia, Mombasa, Kwale and Taita Taveta. With support from USAID, PIK project is championing for a society free of Gender Based Violence.
Kegonga High School, Migori County. Picture: CHRISTINE OGUTU
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Collapse of family unit to blame for the rising insecurity
Georgina Nyambura (right), treasurer Embakasi Sub-County, blames lack of peace on breakdown in family structures. Picture: Carolyne oyugi By Faith Muiruri
A
bsence of peace at the family unit has been blamed on the high numbers of minors joining organized criminal gangs in Nairobi. Georgina Nyambura, treasurer of the Embakasi Sub-County Peace Committee said children as young as eight years are being recruited into criminal gangs as they seek to fend for themselves. 38
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Nyambura, who is also a volunteer children’s officer, cites the case of an eight year old boy who they rescued from a criminal gang going by the name Gaza in Umoja Estate. According to Nyambura, the boy fled from home after being enticed to join the gang. However, he was unable to cope in the group and had to seek for help. “We managed to rescue and reunite him with his family.
Now he has gone back to school and has vowed not to join the group again,” she explained. According to Nyambura, girls have not been spared and majority of them carry lethal weapons for the gangs as they are unlikely to attract any scrutiny from security agencies. “Most these girls are young mothers and besides joining criminal gangs, they engage in prostitution,” said Nyambura.
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
“Most of these minors are victims of disintegration of the family unit and majority opt for criminal activities as a survival tactic,” she explained during an interview with the African Woman and Child Feature Services (AWCFS). She noted that the situation has been aggravated by the deplorable state of child protection units in police stations. “If you rescue these children and take them to the protection units, majority find their way back to the streets,” noted Nyambura. She observed: “There are no shelters where they can be housed.” Further, Nyambura noted, Kenyan law prohibits individuals from keeping children without the necessary documentation. She pointed out that reintegrating the children back into society is also a big challenge due to the stigmatisation that they face. Majority are side-lined by their peers and other families who feel they could negatively influence them. Nyambura underscored the need to set up a rescue centre which could help accommodate the minors once they are rescued from outside their homes. Nyambura was speaking on the International Day of Peace that has been set aside to celebrate peace both inside and outside the home.
tactic.”
Most of these minors are victims of disintegration of the family unit and majority opt for criminal activities as a survival
Georgina Nyambura, treasurer of the Embakasi SubCounty Peace Committee
Currently, Nyambura said, they have been able to rescue about 30 minors through the Umoja Women Mobile Healthcare project. “The children have been enrolled in schools across the country.” Umoja Women Mobile Healthcare project trains and supports young mothers to start businesses and earn a livelihood. Criminal gangs The project deals with support and care of vulnerable children, survivors of Gender Based Violence as well as HIV and AIDS prevention and advocacy. The group has also started a feeding programme in Umoja Estate that targets street children. “Beneficiaries are then reunited with their families in a bid to ensure that they do not join criminal gangs,” Nyambura explained. She spoke as the Nairobi County Commissioner Maina Ndirangu revealed
that most of atrocities related to conflict are perpetrated by young people. Targeted Ndirangu noted that the youth have continuously been targeted and easily recruited into tribal militia, organized criminal gangs and terrorist organizations. He blamed this on idleness, lack of employment and poverty with some of them being driven by the need to sustain their addiction to alcohol and substance abuse. Ndirangu underscored the need to rehabilitate these youth and sensitize them on the existence of government initiatives such as Uwezo Fund which are geared towards boosting economic and individual growth. He called on other stakeholders to actively engage the youth in alternative income generating activities. “There is need for enhanced collaboration between the national and county governments as
well as communities and all stakeholders,” said Ndirangu. He added: “This is important in mainstreaming and synchronizing national cohesion and integration efforts in all administrative levels through local peace structures.” Ndirangu reiterated this when he spoke on the International Day of Peace noting that the theme “Partnership for Peace — Dignity For All is important if sustainable peace is to be achieved. Cohesion He observed that threats such as terrorism, conflicts, proliferation of illicit small arms and light weapons, organized criminal gangs, radicalization have continued to weaken societal cohesion and national unity at large. “This has in turn led to an upsurge in incidences of conflict and insecurity.” Ndirangu observed that alcohol, drug and substance abuse has contributed immensely to societal decay, and provided avenues to increased insecurity and potential conflict situations. However, he noted that the recent presidential directive to eliminate second generation brews and drugs has been successful in curbing increased levels of alcoholism and drug abuse that has rendered many youth irrelevant to the society.
special issue: Talking PEACE 39
PROMOTING A SOCIETY FREE OF GENDER VIOLENCE
TALKING PEACE
special issue: Talking PEACE