Senator Esther Okenyuri: Let’s unite to end Gender Based Violence! Nominated Senator Esther ‘Essy’ Okenyuri has called on Kenyans to unite in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), emphasizing that addressing this societal issue requires a collective effort.
Speaking during a sensitization campaign in Kisii County organized by the Kenya Young Parliamentarians Association (KYPA), Okenyuri highlighted the need to confront GBV head-on.
The campaign coincided with the Global 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, an annual initiative aimed at raising awareness and eliminating violence against women and girls worldwide.
A Call for Collaboration
Okenyuri stressed that all members of society, including men, must actively participate in eradicating GBV. She noted that the fight should not be left to women alone, as this would hinder the chances of success.
“With the upward spiraling of Gender-Based Violence cases, it behoves us as a society to create awareness of these heinous acts which manifest in multiple ways. Moreover, this fight calls for collaboration from both women and men, lest women become a lone voice, making it difficult to win,” she said.
The Senator also highlighted the symbolism of the color orange, used during the 16 Days of Activism, describing it as a representation of a brighter future free from violence against women and girls.
“Let us together unite to end impunity and hold perpetrators of Gender-Based Violence accountable. It is a fight for a better, safer society for all,” she added.
Effects of Gender-Based Violence
Okenyuri emphasized the far-reaching consequences of GBV, including early marriages, physical and emotional harm, and disruptions to children’s education. She pointed out how domestic conflicts often undermine the economic and social fabric of families and communities.
“We have been witnessing Gender-Based Violence here and there, and the effects are profound. Early marriages, physical harm, and children being unable to attend school are just a few examples. This is why we are launching this campaign—to motivate our mothers, fathers, young women, and men to stay in peace. When we reduce domestic conflicts, students can go to school and achieve their dreams. Our parents can engage in business, support themselves, and contribute to the national economy,” Okenyuri said.
A Message of Peace
The Senator linked the fight against GBV to the broader need for peace and stability within communities. She argued that peaceful households create an environment where children can thrive in education and families can prosper economically.
“The campaign reminds us of the importance of peace, not just as an ideal but as a necessity. Peace reduces conflicts, creates a good environment for children to attend school, and allows businesses to thrive. This, in turn, supports economic growth and stability,” she said.
Collaborative Efforts
The campaign, organized by KYPA, brought together key stakeholders, including men, women, and local administration officials, to discuss effective measures to combat GBV in Kisii County. The inclusive approach underscored the importance of engaging all segments of society in addressing the problem.
By involving men and community leaders in the discussion, the campaign aimed to dismantle the stigma surrounding GBV and promote a culture of accountability and respect.
A National Imperative
Okenyuri’s initiative is part of a larger national effort to combat GBV and ensure a safer environment for women and girls. Her advocacy highlights the importance of grassroots campaigns in addressing the root causes of violence and fostering community-driven solutions.
The Senator concluded by urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and proactive in addressing GBV, reminding everyone of their shared responsibility to build a peaceful and equitable society.
“This campaign is a call to action. Together, we can create a society where violence against women and girls is not tolerated, where peace prevails, and where everyone has the opportunity to thrive,” she said.
Moving Forward
As campaigns like these gain momentum, the hope remains that the collaborative efforts will lead to significant progress in combating GBV and creating a safer, more inclusive society for all.
