Societal perceptions of sexual violence: the case of Westland’s division, Nairobi

Abstract

There has been increasing concern about sexual violence against women in general in both developed and developing countries. Not only has sexual violence against women been acknowledged worldwide as a violation of the basic human rights of women, but an increasing amount of research highlights the health burdens, intergenerational effects, and demographic consequences of such. Sexual violence occurs across all socioeconomic and cultural backgrounds, and in many societies, including Kenya, women are socialized to accept, tolerate, and even rationalize domestic violence and to remain silent about such experiences. Violence of any kind has a serious impact on the economy of a country; because women bear the brunt of violence, they bear the health and psychological burdens as well. Victims of domestic violence are abused inside what should be the most secure environment-their own homes. This study sought to explore the reasons behind the increased cases of sexual violence and the levels of public awareness on the issue in Kenya with specific focus on the WestIands division. In addition the study also looked into the various types of sexual violence occurring in Kenya, the societal perception of sexual violence, the measures an individual can take before, during and after sexual violence and finally the role of society in the fight against sexual violence. A sample size of 45 people was selected from three locations in WestIands division namely Kangemi, Kitisuru and Highridge. Kangemi is a low-income area; Kitisuru is a high-income area whereas Highridge is a middle-income area. For a further insight and knowledgeable opinion on the subject matter, four key informants were interviewed from the Center for Rights Education and Awareness( CREAW), International Federation of Women Lawyers¬Kenya Chapter(FIDA), Pendekezo Letu and Women's Rights Awareness Program(WRAP). Findings from this study indicate that despite the good awareness on the consequences of sexual violence, the vice is on an upsurge in Kenya. This is aggravated by the fact that it occurs in the places we deem most secure and the culprits are mainly close acquaintances and relatives. Although there exists numerous forms of sexual violence, sexual rape is the only well known form among the majority of the respondents who happen to be less educated and located in the slum area (Kangemi). The respondents from Kitisuru and Highridge are however more knowledgeable in terms of the various types of sexual violence. The government which is indebted with bringing the much desired change seems not to be coping with the situation on the ground as far as issues of sexual violence are concerned. This was indicated by respondents in the study who mentioned corrupt police officers and lack of laid down structures to deal with the situation