Hundreds of university students from TU-K, JKUAT, UON, KU, and other institutions today gathered at the Technical University of Kenya for a high-impact forum against gender-based violence (GBV). Organised by nominated Senator Karen Nyamu, the gathering, called "STOP Violence Against Women," served as an important point for social responsibility and youth advocacy in the fight against femicide and other types of violence.
TU-K Dean of Students, Prof. Omondi Okech, made opening remarks and welcomed participants. He introduced the day’s lineup of influential speakers, including gender advocates, public service leaders, student representatives and the chief guest, Senetor Karen Nyamu.
Ms Cadile Gathoni, a gender advocate from Kenyatta University, shed light on the multiple forms of gender-based violence affecting communities. She emphasised the importance of initiatives such as Usikimye, a platform that not only documents cases of GBV but also provides support services to survivors.
The head of Nairobi City Council's GBV programme and Psychosocial Support Officer, Brenda Imali, called for a more comprehensive definition of GBV that surround violence experienced by people of all genders. “We also need to discuss the violence that men face, as many of their cases are minimised or disregarded.”
"The more people report, the more people are informed and in the process they promote a transparent culture. Let's raise our voices.”
Imali urged participants to seek counselling when necessary and cautioned that unresolved GBV frequently contributes to mental health issues like depression.
In her remarks, Sen. Nyamu urged the youth to actively oppose femicide. She urged, "Let's hear your voice against GBV. Use social media platforms to spread knowledge and awareness in order to promote digital advocacy.”
Earlier in the day, Sen. Nyamu paid called on the Deputy Vice-Chancellor Academic and Student Affairs, Prof. Maurice Amutabi in his office. The meeting underscored the University’s commitment to fostering academic partnerships that promote gender equity and student welfare.
The event marked a unified stance across Kenya’s student population, highlighting the vital role of youth leadership and inter-university collaboration in driving the national conversation on gender justice.
