Kenya: Ambitious new plan to combat gender-based violence, between hope and skepticism.

In Kenya, a new plan to combat gender-based violence was recently announced, sparking both hope and skepticism. While statistics reveal an alarming reality, including one in three women being victims of physical or sexual violence, the government appears to be acting in response to growing pressure from civil society and human rights defenders. But will this commitment be enough to change the mindset and end this horrific silent pandemic?

An ambitious strategy in the face of an acute reality

Kenya is embarking on an ambitious five-year plan to eradicate gender-based violence. The government has promised to strengthen existing laws and improve the quality of services offered to victims. This includes setting up support centres where women can go without fear of reprisal. This is a commendable initiative, but it raises many questions: will there be enough resources?

Implementation Challenges

For this plan to work, it is not enough to announce promises on paper. Logistical and cultural challenges are crucial in combating this endemic violence. Mentalities must change and deeply rooted gender stereotypes do not disappear so easily. Awareness campaigns targeting not only women, but also men are imperative in order to change behaviors. But who is ready to accept that the solution also lies in educating boys to become allies rather than aggressors?

A necessary mobilization

Civil society mobilisation is essential to put pressure on the government and ensure that promises are not kept. Non-governmental organisations play a crucial role in raising awareness, but they must also ensure that the necessary funding and resources are allocated. Women must be at the heart of this fight, but they cannot do it alone. Men, too often silent or, worse, complicit, must be involved in this fight for real social change.

This plan, while ambitious, can only be a success if it is accompanied by real political will and long-term commitment. Combating gender-based violence must not be a fad, but a priority for Kenyan society. It remains to be seen whether words will translate into concrete actions in the months to come.