We are mapping sexual violence in Kenya with our partner, Polycom Development Project who is a grassroots organisation working on sexual and reproductive health in Kibera, one of the largest slums in Nairobi. We are raising funds to help them train 5 youth leaders to map sexual violence and use the data collected to analyse trends and patterns which can further be used to engage institutional stakeholders in finding local solutions.
Sexual violence is a pandemic especially in Kenya. We have already been mapping sexual violence in Kibera. Our initial dataset has indicated high amounts of sexual violence against young girls especially by family members and teachers. This requires an education and advocacy programme to help young girls deal with this abuse and find appropriate responses to prevent it. We also need to educate them on resources to help them. It also requires educating the larger ecosystem of parents, teachers.
By collecting anonymous reports of sexual violence, we can show the scope and extent of the problem. We can also understand the insights from the data in order to deep dive into the causes of the problem. Accordingly, we can decide which stakeholders to engage. Data can also have a starting point for dialogue in the community and to hold institutions accountable. Also having this information in the public domain puts pressure on the authorities.
- Helps break the silence around the issue. - Creates a databank of experiences which can be mined for insights. - Helps to create a safe space to discuss the issue.
