Kenya Hosts Regional Workshop to Champion Positive Masculinity and End Gender-Based Violence
Kenya has reaffirmed its commitment to gender equality and the elimination of gender-based violence (GBV) during a regional workshop that brought together stakeholders, youth advocates, and foreign delegates from across Africa.
The workshop, co-sponsored by the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action alongside key partners including FAWE and FOWL, focused on promoting positive masculinity and ratifying the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls.
In a speech delivered on her behalf, Principal Secretary for Gender Anne Wang’ombe welcomed delegates to the forum, emphasizing Kenya’s dedication to inclusive justice and the protection of fundamental human rights.
“I’m happy to welcome all foreign delegates to this great nation of Kenya,” said PS Wang’ombe. “This workshop is a step forward in convening around shared goals to reform narratives around positive masculinity and to collectively combat gender-based violence, which continues to impact communities across the continent.”
The PS praised the efforts of FOWL and its partners for their commitment to advancing gender equity through advocacy, education, and capacity-building initiatives. A special highlight was the recognition of the African Union Convention on Ending Violence Against Women and Girls, adopted by AU Heads of State in February 2025.
“This landmark convention is a critical step towards addressing gender-based violence and advancing gender equality, not only in Kenya but across Africa,” she said. “Gender-based violence remains a pressing public health and human rights issue that cuts across race, age, and socio-economic backgrounds.”
Wang’ombe underscored the need for structural reforms and policy advocacy to empower women and girls, especially through education and economic opportunities. She noted that achieving Sustainable Development Goal 5 on gender equality demands unwavering dedication from all sectors.
“As a nation that upholds the rule of law, we must actualize our constitutional ideals through inclusive empowerment,” she added. “Education and economic independence are vital in ending cycles of abuse and discrimination.”
The workshop also featured the official launch of the Girls and Young Women-led Assessment Report on Online Sexual Exploitation and Abuse (OSEA), which delves into technology-facilitated GBV. The session was led by young women advocates Penny Ogembo and Bente Kabene.
Wang’ombe extended her gratitude to all contributors to the forum while she urge them to continue working together for a more just society.
“Together, let us build a safer, more just society,” she concluded. “Let us work towards total liberation for women and girls in every sphere of life.”
By Sharon Atieno
