Online violence against women and girls is rising sharply and can be as damaging as physical abuse in homes and communities, Kajiado Governor’s spouse Edna Lenku has cautioned.
Speaking during celebrations to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, held under the theme “End Violence in the Digital Space: Protecting Women and Girls Online,”
She noted that while digital platforms offer avenues for learning, networking and personal growth, they have increasingly become spaces where women and girls face cyber harassment, exploitation and exposure to harmful content.
“Violence in the digital space can be just as damaging as abuse in homes or communities,” she warned. “Online harassment affects mental health, emotional stability and social wellbeing, sometimes leaving long-lasting trauma.”
Lenku stressed that the effects of such abuse are far-reaching. Lenku highlighted the opportunities and risks presented by rapid technological advancement.
“The impact of digital violence goes beyond the screen; it shapes how girls and women perceive themselves, interact with others, and participate in society,” she said.
She urged parents, educators, community leaders and young people to take a more active role in fostering safe online environments. This, she said, includes promoting responsible internet use, reporting harmful content and opening up discussions on digital ethics.
“Every individual has a role to play in making the digital world safe for women, girls and vulnerable persons,” she said, adding that promoting empathy, respect and accountability online is just as important as protecting women offline.
Lenku also praised Kajiado County for its proactive measures against gender-based violence, citing the historic declaration made on November 25, 2025, in Suswa, where elders and cultural leaders from Kajiado and Narok counties pledged to end female genital mutilation (FGM) in the Maa community.
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“This courageous act demonstrates that cultural leadership can be a powerful ally in the fight against all forms of violence, both offline and online,” she said.
Kajiado County Gender Officer Catherine Mutinda echoed Lenku’s sentiments, noting that gender-based violence remains widespread and urging residents to speak out.
“GBV is still a major challenge in our communities. No one should keep quiet when it happens,” she said. Mutinda added that the launch of the county’s GBV Prevention and Response Policy would strengthen legal and institutional frameworks to protect survivors and prevent violence.
Samuel Onsarigo of Light Up Hope Africa, a local NGO, emphasized the need for joint action.
“Ending gender-based violence is not the responsibility of one person or institution,” he said. “Communities, leaders and organizations must work together to eradicate this vice. Preventing GBV requires a coordinated, long-term effort focused on strengthening support systems, promoting equality and ensuring justice for survivors.”
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, observed annually from November 25 to December 10, aims to raise awareness, advocate for policy reforms and prevent all forms of violence against women and girls. This year’s campaign focuses on online safety, urging communities to work collectively to ensure women and girls can learn, interact and thrive in digital spaces without fear.
By Kimutai Langat
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