Gender violence mostly affects women and girls; with their vulnerability increasing in areas where there are conflicts, crisis and pandemics such as the COVID-2019. This is worsened by the silence that surrounds Sexual Gender Based Violence (SGBV), often fueled by shame and cultural norms.  Kwale County is s one of the counties that stand out on cases of SGBV. According to a Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (2022), women aged 15-49 in Kwale have ever experienced physical violence, sexual violence, and have ever experienced physical, sexual, or psychological or emotional violence committed by their most recent husband or partner (https://dhsprogram.com/pubs/pdf/GF57/GF57Kwale.pdf ). It is against this background that the Women of Faith were moved to strongly raise their voices against this vice; through shared experiences in areas such as Matuga, Msambweni, Kinango and Lunga Lunga sub counties.

Women of faith in Kwale County are leveraging their religious communities to raise awareness about SGBV; through sermons, workshops, and community events, the women have educated both men and women on the importance of recognizing and addressing the root causes of SGBV. By fostering open conversations within their congregations, they are dismantling the stigma surrounding this sensitive issue. They are actively collaborating with non-governmental organizations (NGOs) and local authorities to strengthen their efforts against sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) because they understand the value of teamwork.

With the help of institutional assistance and grassroots efforts, they hope to develop a comprehensive approach that considers the complex nature of gender-based violence. In 2024, a landmark victory was achieved; the Kwale County as the Anti-SGBV Act was passed. Some organizations like Naya, Coalition on Violence against Women (Covaw), and Sauti ya Wanawake spearheaded the passing of the bill . Kwale County Government organized meetings with the CSO’s  FBO’s, and like-minded individuals so as to strengthen collaboration towards gender responsive policies. The Kwale Women of Faith Network members through Inter-Religious Council of Kenya led by the chairlady Immaculate Mungai were among some of the like-minded partners invited to come up with ideas to help in the passing of the bill. The women have transformed into watchdogs, ensuring shelters are in place for victims , support systems are established, and perpetrators held accountable.

Kwale Women of Faith members are using their convictions as motivation to bring about constructive change. They are ending the cycle of violence and building a community where everyone, regardless of gender, may prosper through activism, and support. These women’s unwavering dedication and continued unity has provided a strong message in creating awareness against SGBV.

By Mary Ndulili