A new study has revealed a significant shift in public attitudes towards women’s rights and feminist activism in Kenya, with the majority of Kenyans now supporting women’s participation in protests and human rights advocacy. Contrary to previous perceptions of Kenya as deeply conservative, the research shows widespread backing for women’s efforts to secure equality and fundamental rights.
The study, commissioned by Defenders Coalition, focuses on the role of women in activism and human rights defense. Titled “The Gendered Nature of the Right to Protest in Kenya: An Assessment,” it highlights strong public support for women’s involvement in movements advocating for basic rights, including emerging issues like environmental justice, land rights, and women’s rights.
The findings come as the world observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an international campaign aimed at addressing violence against women and girls. The campaign runs annually from November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, to December 10, Human Rights Day. This year’s report also comes at a time when Kenya is grappling with an alarming rise in femicide, with recent police data indicating that over 100 women have been killed by their intimate partners in the past 100 days.
According to the report, the majority of women human rights defenders (WHRDs) reported strong familial support for their participation in peaceful protests. 54% of the women surveyed said their parents approved of their activism, while 61% stated their families were supportive. Among peers and friends, the approval was even higher, with 71% of women activists receiving backing for their involvement in protests. The general public also expressed significant support, with 69% of respondents endorsing women’s engagement in peaceful demonstrations.
However, the study also found some ambivalence. About 60% of the WHRDs said society at large approved of their activism, while nearly a third were unsure or believed society disapproved. Additionally, 24% of participants said their parents did not support their involvement in protests, and 14% were uncertain about their parents’ stance.
The survey participants were predominantly young women, with the largest group (33%) falling within the 31-40 age range. The study also noted a strong educational background among the women, with 68% having post-secondary education, and 29% holding university degrees. In terms of marital status, 47% of the participants were single, 40% were married, and the remainder were divorced or widowed.
The report highlights a growing acceptance of women’s rights activism in Kenya, even as the country faces challenges such as increasing violence against women.
