Violence against women and girls, including gender-based violence (GBV), remains one of the most pervasive violations of human rights globally. This violence takes many forms, including physical, emotional, sexual, and psychological abuse, often perpetrated by intimate partners, strangers, or institutions. According to the World Health Organization, 1 in 3 women worldwide have experienced physical or sexual violence.
This violence not only affects women and girls, but it also impacts families, communities, and societies at large. It perpetuates cycles of poverty, disrupts communities, and hampers national development. Addressing GBV requires a multi-faceted approach, which includes prevention, protection, provision of services, and the promotion of gender equality. Awareness-raising campaigns and public engagement are critical to creating a more just society.
Kenya has made tremendous efforts in addressing this issue with the most recent effort being the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) which happened from 25th November- 10th December. The 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) achieved recommendable milestones that now this marathon aims at building up on them to continue amplifying the message not only to Kenyans but also to the entire world.
In an effort to galvanize support, raise awareness, and foster community action, the proposed “Marathon dubbed Run Against GBV, to End Violence Against Women and GBV” will be a high-profile event aimed at drawing attention to this issue while encouraging individuals and organizations to take concrete steps toward the elimination of GBV.
#RunAgainstGBV Marathon Purpose and Objectives
The primary purpose of this marathon is to raise awareness about violence against women and girls, inspire collective action, and advocate for policy change. The event aims to:
Raise Awareness: Increase public awareness about the prevalence, impact, and consequences of violence against women and girls, and its relation to gender-based violence.
Advocate for Change: Mobilize support for stronger laws, policies, and resources aimed at preventing violence against women and ensuring survivor support.
Empower Communities: Engage communities, Government bodies, civil society, and the private sector in the fight against GBV.
Fundraise for Support Services: Generate funds to support women’s shelters, counseling services, legal aid for survivors, and educational initiatives.
#RunAgainstGBV Marathon Structure
Run Against GBV Marathon is proposed to be held on March 9 during the International Women’s Day which is a globally recognized day for women’s rights.
The Nyayo National Stadium is the proposed kick-off and finishing point for all the categories of the marathon subject to a review by the general planning committee.
The marathon will have the following categories; 21 km (half marathon) and 6km fun run making it accessible and achievable for all fitness levels. A virtual marathon will also be offered to include global participation.
#RunAgainstGBV Marathon Target Participants
This marathon targets the following groups;
General public, survivors of violence, advocacy groups and organizations working on women’s rights, Government representatives and policy makers, corporate partners and sponsors, institutions of higher learning; universities and TVET institutions.
Pre-event Activities
Pre-event Awareness Campaign: Engage the public in a month-long awareness campaign that includes educational materials, survivor testimonies, and information on GBV services.
This will be done both in the newspapers, radio stations, TV interviews and Press briefing, digital media campaigns on Facebook, X, TikTok and Instagram as well as documentaries on GBV that will be streamed on You Tube and other social media platforms.
The event will also entail key policy makers; including women Member of Parliament, Principal Secretary State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action, Cabinet Secretary Ministry of Gender, Culture, The Arts and Heritage, Chief Executive Officer National Gender Equality Commission, Advocacy groups among other key individuals being interviewed and the footage aired on leading TV stations on GBV as well as being streamed on all social media platforms.
Survivor Stories and Testimonies: Highlight the stories of those who have experienced GBV and showcase the resources available to support them.
#RunAgainstGBV Marathon Implementation Plan
The event is being coordinated by a committee composed of representatives from various sectors,
including: Government, private sector, religious organizations and Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs).
The event activities are scheduled and coordinated by Niviara Executives Limited.
#RunAgainstGBV Marathon Expected Outcomes
Increased Awareness: A measurable increase in public understanding of the scope and impact of violence against women and girls.
Policy Advocacy: Strengthening of advocacy for policy changes that focus on prevention, protection, and support for survivors.
Resource Mobilization: Funds raised through participation and donations will contribute to critical services for survivors, including shelters, counseling, and legal support.
Global Network: Creation of a broad coalition of activists, survivors, and community members committed to ending violence against women and GBV.
#RunAgainstGBV Marathon Monitoring and Evaluation
Pre-event Survey: Conduct surveys to assess the baseline level of public awareness regarding violence against women and gender-based violence.
Post-event Evaluation: Gather data from participants on their knowledge of GBV after the event and their commitment to taking action.
#RunAgainstGBV Marathon
The “Marathon to End Violence Against Women and GBV” will serve as a powerful symbol of collective commitment to eradicating violence against women. By combining the universal appeal of sports with advocacy and community mobilization, this event aims to create a lasting impact on public attitudes, policies, and resources available to combat GBV. The marathon will not only bring people together but will also serve as a call to action to end gender-based violence worldwide.