Women urged to secure economic empowerment amid efforts to end gender-based violence

Gender-based violence (GBV) in Kenya has increased from 26 per cent to 30 per cent, according to President's Advisor on Women's Rights, Harriette Chiggai.

Chiggai urged Kenyan women to engage in activities that will uplift and safeguard their economic status, emphasizing that financial stability alone does not shield women from vulnerability.

“It’s one thing to be economically secure, and another to remain a target,” she stated.

She further advocated for the creation of safe homes and spaces where families can feel secure as they go about their daily lives. The safe home safe spaces initiative is sponsored by Lipa Likes.

Chiggai made these remarks during a women’s economic empowerment program organized by Freedom Embassy Church on Saturday, where over 250 women received seed funding to start and grow their businesses. In total, half a million shillings was distributed among the women groups.

Betting Control and Licensing Board (BCLB) Chairperson and Lead Pastor at Freedom Embassy Church, Jane Mwikali, also encouraged women to take charge of their economic futures, noting that widows, in particular, have the potential to thrive with the government's support.