Train 120 Health & Human Rights promoters in Kenya

Dear Esteemed Friends, Supporters and Advocates,

On March 8, 2025, we had the privilege of celebrating International Women’s Day at Nyamarimba Sublocation, Nyamira County. This year’s theme, “For All Women and Girls! Rights, Equality, Empowerment,” set the stage for important discussions on women’s rights, gender equality, and the role of empowerment in shaping a better future for all.

The event brought together women from the community to reflect on the significance of knowing their rights. We emphasized that awareness is the first step toward self-protection and empowerment. When a woman understands her rights, she can stand up for herself and advocate for others. The discussion highlighted that equality is not about competition between men and women but about ensuring that everyone has the same opportunities to thrive.

One of the key topics was the role of culture in shaping gender roles and expectations. Many women expressed their struggles with discrimination, particularly in matters of property ownership and decision-making within their families. Some shared their concerns about whether their husbands would accept the changes they were learning about. “Madam, it’s good that you’ve told us this, but will our husbands agree with us?” one participant, Ochoki, not her real name, asked.

I assured them that change takes time and starts with open conversations. Cultural norms have been deeply ingrained for generations, but progress is possible when women begin to assert themselves and engage their families in discussions about equality. Viola, not her real name another participant, voiced her fears, “We fear being chased away. These men were raised with such beliefs, and changing them is like bending a mature tree—it will break.” However, Josephine, not her real name, encouraged her fellow women to take the first step, reminding them that seeking help and guidance from local authorities was always an option.

Sophia, not her real name, visibly surprised, admitted that she had never realized she had a right to property ownership. “This is my first time hearing that I have a right to property. I always believed that because my husband brought me into his home, everything belongs to him—even myself.” Bethsheba, not her real name, also shared her frustrations, questioning why, in family discussions, her husband always involved his brothers but excluded her. “From today, I will be part of those conversations,” she declared confidently.

Another critical issue that emerged was the often-overlooked experience of men facing domestic abuse. The local chief revealed that some men in the community suffered silently, fearing shame and ridicule if they spoke out. This revelation prompted further discussion on the importance of addressing all forms of gender-based violence, regardless of the victim’s gender. The chief even requested HFAW to extend its outreach to a nearby sublocation where high cases of alcohol-related gender-based violence were reported, with women being the primary perpetrators.

As the session concluded, the women expressed their commitment to taking action. They pledged to challenge cultural norms that undermine them, educate their families about gender equality, and stand firm in advocating for their rights. The event reinforced the understanding that gender equality is not just a women’s issue—it is a societal issue that affects everyone.

We are grateful to all our supporters for walking with us on this journey of empowerment and transformation. As we continue to push for a world free from violence and discrimination, we remain hopeful that these conversations will inspire real change within our communities. We humbly request that you keep supporting us and share out our reports to friends.

With gratitude,
Doris Kananu
Program Director.