As the world marks the 16 Days of Activism against gender-based violence campaign, Islamic Relief is making significant progress in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) and HIV stigma in Garissa County in western Kenya.
In a region shaped by religious conservatism, HIV prevention methods are often misinterpreted as promoting ‘immoral’ behaviour, fuelling stigma that makes it even more challenging to prevent the spread of the disease.
This stigma, coupled with fear of further violence in cases of GBV, prevents many individuals from seeking help, creating a cycle that hinders access to essential care and support. Islamic Relief Kenya’s programme primarily works to tackle this stigma, addressing barriers to prevention, treatment, and community support for those affected by GBV and HIV/AIDS.
Community workshops create change
Supported by the Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS (UNAIDS), Islamic Relief has organised workshops involving 300 community leaders, including paralegals, a representative from the Police Gender Desk, faith leaders and health workers.
They are committed to raising awareness within their communities by focusing on HIV and GBV prevention, care and support.
“Sexual offences are on the rise. Stronger networks between community leaders and members are crucial. When myths are dispelled, communities become stronger sources of support,” says Fatuma Ahmed, Vice Chair of the Garissa County Human Rights Chapter.
The programme’s impact is already visible. Sixty workshop participants have formed 10 advocacy groups, sparking discussions with over 300 individuals across Garissa County, including those living with HIV. Building on this success, the project has now expanded to Wajir, reaching even more people: 600 community leaders trained, 2,000 learners educated, 400 community members engaged in dialogue sessions, and 5 radio talk shows conducted to amplify the message.
An example of these groups is led by Imam Omar Shaabtar, which engages men and young people in conversations about the rising cases of defilement, rape and HIV. Imam Omar discusses these issues during his sermons in a bid to combat stigma around HIV and GBV. His work highlights the important role religious leaders can play in shaping social norms.
Educating the next generation
In Garissa Township, 2,000 students across 10 schools have received comprehensive training led by Islamic Relief on life skills, HIV awareness, GBV prevention, and the importance of care and support for affected individuals.
These sessions equip young people with tools to recognise signs of abuse and understand their rights under the law, as well as knowledge on HIV prevention.
“We are creating conducive school environments to engage students on age-appropriate sexual education. Young people can strengthen the community response to HIV and GBV by encouraging their peers to access health services,” said Hassan Abdille, Islamic Relief Kenya Country Director.
Muntaz, a student at NEP Girls High School, says she now realises the importance of breaking the silence on HIV and GBV. “I thought these issues were too big for me to tackle. I now realise how important it is to speak up against any harm directed to someone because of their gender or encourage someone to seek help.”
Public engagement through local media
Islamic Relief has also produced 6 broadcasts for a local radio station to reach even more people. Listeners to the 30-minute segments are encouraged to ask questions around these ‘taboo’ subjects, creating an environment of interactive learning.
Islamic Relief’s work in Garissa is beginning to break the cycle of silence surrounding GBV and HIV. By fostering open, faith-led discussions, Islamic Relief is creating better informed and compassionate communities.
Despite these successes, there are hurdles ahead. A lack of sustainable funding has slowed the full implementation of some activities. We need your help to strengthen inter-community networks and ensure vulnerable people receive the support they need.
Please donate today to help Islamic Relief continue this vital work and help create lasting change. Together, we can make a difference.
