Online violence against women and girls is on the rise and can be as damaging as abuse in homes and communities, Kajiado County Governor’s spouse, Edna Lenku, has warned.
Speaking during celebrations to mark the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence under the theme, “End Violence in the Digital Space: Protecting Women and Girls Online,” Lenku highlighted both the opportunities and dangers presented by technology.
She noted that while digital platforms offer avenues for learning, networking and personal growth, they have also become spaces where women and girls face cyber harassment, exploitation, and exposure to harmful content.
Lenku warned that violence in the digital space can be just as damaging as abuse in homes or communities, pointing out that online harassment affects mental health, emotional stability, and social wellbeing, sometimes leaving long-lasting trauma.
“The impact of digital violence goes beyond the screen; it shapes how girls and women perceive themselves, interact with others, and participate in the society,” she said.
She urged parents, educators, community leaders, and young people to take an active role in fostering safe online environments and called for education on responsible internet use, reporting of harmful content, and open dialogue 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 as important as protecting women offline.
Lenku further praised Kajiado County for its proactive measures against Gender-Based Violence, highlighting a 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.
“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 not to remain silent
“GBV is still a major challenge in our communities. No one should keep quiet when it happens,” she said, adding that the launch of the county’s GBV Prevention and Response Policy would strengthen the legal and institutional framework to protect survivors and prevent violence.
Samuel Onsarigo from Light Up Hope Africa, a local non-governmental organization, said the fight against GBV requires concerted efforts from all stakeholders.
“Ending gender-based violence is not the responsibility of one person or institution. Communities, leaders, and organizations must work together to eradicate this vice. Preventing Gender-Based Violence requires a coordinated, long-term effort focused on strengthening support systems, promoting equality, and ensuring justice for survivors,” he said.
The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence is an annual international campaign running from November 25 to December 10. It seeks to raise awareness, advocate for policy reforms, and prevent all forms of violence against women and girls. This year’s campaign is focused on online safety, urging communities to act collectively to ensure that women and girls can learn, interact, and thrive in digital spaces without fear.
by Rop Janet
