BRPID - Kenya
 

 

Kenya Association of University Women
Women for Peace Project

Project uniting women.  Ethnic violence erupted in many parts of the country, following the disputed Presidential election in Kenya in January 2008.  This project is based in Kibera, a large shanty town in the Nairobi conurbation, which is home to thousands of people from all major ethnic groups. 

The proposed programme took place between July 2008 and June 2009 and included:

  • Counselling for women experiencing psychological and social trauma as a result of rape, loss of property, bereavement
  • Training sessions on human rights, women's rights, reconciliation and peace-building
  • Seminars/workshops for entire communities to discourage unfavourable cultural practices such as gender preference, early marriage and child labour
  • Promoting dialogue with local government/leaders to support the education of the girl child
  • Encourage networking among women's groups

More than 100 women participated in the programme and benefited from the free training programme by KAUW professional volunteers.  Additional training session were held on issues such as HIV/AIDS, STDs, environmental and general hygiene, access to justice, and counselling.   As a result, KAUW members have gained exposure in the community and a better knowledge and understanding of the daily problems of survival of women in the shanty towns. 

A new group of 24 volunteer women has been formed.  They operate as: Kibera Women for Peace and Cleanliness and work as peace messengers.   They also advise on environmental cleanliness among the different tribes in the shanty town.. 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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