A Call to Action: Unveiling the Silent Crisis of Gender-Based Violence in Kenyan Universities

A Call to Action: Unveiling the Silent Crisis of Gender-Based Violence in Kenyan Universities 

Story by Stella Ranji 

In a small conference room at the heart of Nairobi, a groundbreaking report on Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Kenya’s universities was unveiled, casting a harsh light on a crisis that has long been shrouded in silence. The findings, which reveal disturbing statistics, have ignited a call for urgent action to protect students from abuse and create safer campus environments.

The report, an extensive study examining the prevalence of GBV in universities, the effectiveness of reporting mechanisms, and the response systems in place, has caused alarm. The numbers tell a chilling story: 50% of young women in universities have experienced some form of violence, with 35% subjected to sexual violence. These statistics highlight the deeply entrenched nature of the problem and its widespread impact on students' well-being.

Among the voices raised in concern was Wangu Kanja, the founder of the Wangu Kanja Foundation and convener of the Coalition Against Sexual Violence (CASV). Kanja's organization has been a pillar in advocating for survivors of sexual violence, and she was vocal in her response to the report's findings. “Victim-blaming and underreporting are major challenges that continue to hinder progress. Survivors often find themselves isolated, facing not only the trauma of their experiences but also the stigma of being blamed,” she explained.

The report echoed these concerns, revealing that many students, particularly women, suffer in silence due to fear of retribution, lack of support, or societal pressure. In many cases, survivors of sexual violence are left to deal with their trauma alone, with some resorting to harmful coping mechanisms, including depression, substance abuse, and self-harm.

Tammary Rotich, the Deputy Vice Chancellor for Academic and Student Affairs at Amref International University, voiced her deep concern during a press briefing. "Sexual and gender-based violence is a critical issue for universities," she said. "The data shows that 50% of young women in universities experience violence, with 35% experiencing sexual violence. This is deeply disturbing." Her words, filled with urgency, underlined the need for swift intervention and policy reforms to address the crisis head-on.

The report also pointed to the fact that the COVID-19 pandemic has worsened the situation, trapping many victims at home in abusive environments. Lockdowns and the closure of educational institutions have exacerbated the problem, cutting off students from crucial health services, mental health support, and campus resources designed to protect them. As the pandemic unfolded, the traditional support systems that students relied on became inaccessible, leaving them more vulnerable than ever.

One of the most critical aspects of the report was its advocacy for a survivor-centered, trauma-informed approach to policy-making. The findings emphasize the importance of listening to survivors, respecting their autonomy, and ensuring that support systems are not only available but effective. This approach, the report argues, is essential for building an environment in which students can thrive without fear of


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