First Lady Margaret Kenyatta who launched a hand-washing campaign in schools on Friday has been on the fore front to advocate for women’s rights. CFM.
A non-governmental organization based in Kenya and Germany says domestic violence on women both in Kenya and the Diaspora is on the rise.
Virginia Greiner Executive Director for Maisha e.v, a non Governmental Organisation that caters for the rights of Africa Women in Germany says they are concerned at the rising cases, most of which go unreported.
In Kenya, the NGO says, one out of every 3 women has experienced gender based violence while 1 out of every 10 women globally has been a victim of the same.
German representative Lars Wilke applauded the government efforts but noted that much more needs to be done in ensuring that victims get justice.
Speaking at a conference dubbed, “Impact of Violence on Women’s Health” Wilke observed that the violence is taking toll on women because some end up developing health complications like high blood pressure and other stress-related illnesses.
“It is imperative that the police and medical practitioners have the know how to take care of the victims and get them the much needed help,” she said, adding ““Furthermore engaging boys and men in the training is to be considered in the prevention of the acts of violence.”
Greiner said they are also concerned at the challenges women in the Diaspora face because some of them cannot access legal aid.
“Women in foreign countries do not easily access legal or medical care meaning that in cases of gender violence very little action is taken if any,” she said.
“We have set up centres where women who are victims can access help,” she added.
The lobby group cited the recent case of Nairobi Woman Representative Rachael Shebesh who was allegedly assaulted by Nairobi Governor Evans Kidero and Senator Mike Sonko.
The NGO has a local self- help group called Maisha Kenya where women in Kenya can access help in dealing with cases of gender based violence.
Maisha e.V caters for African women in Germany where women from different African countries can access help and counseling services as they settle into the country.
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