USDI’S PARTICIPATION IN THE 16 DAYS OF ACTIVISM AGAINST GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE
Reflecting on 16 Days of Activism 2024: USDI’s Commitment to Ending GBV
From November 25th to December 10th, 2024, the global community marked the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a campaign dedicated to raising awareness and mobilizing action to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls.
This year, Udgoon Sustainable Development Initiative (USDI) actively participated in the campaign through a series of impactful events in Garissa County, focusing on the intersection of climate change, gender-based violence (GBV), and women’s health. These activities brought together experts, civil society organizations, and community members in a collective effort to address GBV and advocate for the rights of women and girls.
Highlights of USDI’s Activities
Panel Discussion on X Spaces – December 4, 2024
Theme: Climate Change as an Accelerator to Women’s Vulnerability to GBV
USDI hosted a virtual panel discussion on X (formerly Twitter), examining how climate change increases women’s exposure to GBV. The discussion featured experts in gender-based violence, gender equality and social inclusion, conflict and migration, and climate action from organizations such as:
- Kenya Red Cross Society
- ActionAid Kenya
- Kenya Girl Guides Association
- Udgoon Sustainable Development Initiative (USDI)
The panel shed light on how climate-related disasters and resource scarcity contribute to displacement, economic hardships, and heightened risks of GBV. Experts also proposed solutions, emphasizing the need for policy action, community resilience programs, and climate-responsive GBV prevention strategies.
Tree Planting at Korakora Primary School – December 7, 2024
Theme: Seeds of Life: Affirming Women’s Right to Life and Thrive
As a closing event, USDI led a tree-planting initiative at Garissa University, advocating for environmental sustainability and women’s empowerment. The event symbolized resilience, growth, and the fight against GBV, while reinforcing a strong call to action:
- Lawmakers were urged to take firm action against femicide and GBV.
- Civil society organizations were encouraged to strengthen their partnerships in the fight against GBV.
- The community and state were called upon to ensure that women and girls can thrive in safe and supportive environments.
Through this initiative, USDI emphasized that protecting women’s rights is fundamental to building a just and sustainable society.
Moving Forward: Sustaining the Fight Against GBV
As the world moves towards Beijing +30, USDI remains dedicated to advocating for the elimination of GBV and ensuring that women and girls can live free from fear, discrimination, and violence. The 16 Days of Activism 2024 reaffirmed our commitment to:
- Strengthening partnerships to address GBV through a multi-sectoral approach.
- Integrating climate action into gender-based violence prevention efforts.
- Expanding access to health and protection services for women in vulnerable communities.
While the 16 Days of Activism campaign has ended, our fight for gender equality and women’s empowerment continues. Together, we can create a future where every woman and girl lives free from violence and reaches her full potential.
#EndGBV #16DaysOfActivism #UNiTE #ClimateActionForWomen #SeedsOfLife