Kenya is taking a bold step towards eradicating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by embracing innovative, entrepreneurial, and community-driven solutions. With rising GBV cases, the need for fresh approaches has never been more urgent. A group of 11 Kenyan entrepreneurs is leading the charge by developing transformative solutions that aim to prevent GBV and support survivors. Their efforts were showcased at the Innovate Against GBV Pitching Event, held at the Trade and Development Bank (TDB) Tower in Nairobi.
The event, organised by the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA) in collaboration with the National Gender Equality Commission (NGEC), Nairobi County Government, and GrowthAfrica, gathered over 100 participants, including investors, partners, and gender experts. The programme aims to leverage entrepreneurship as a tool for social change, equipping local innovators with the resources, mentorship, and networks needed to combat GBV effectively.
Entrepreneurship as a Catalyst for Change
“Businesses have a unique and powerful role in addressing GBV,” stated Makiko Kubota, Chief Advisor of the NGEC-JICA GBV Elimination Project. She emphasised the profound socio-economic impact of GBV on individuals and communities. By integrating GBV solutions into business models, entrepreneurs can foster societal change while driving economic growth.
Misako Uehara, SME and Startup Ecosystem expert at the Kenya Institute of Business Training (KIBT) – JICA Project, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the role of innovative solutions in addressing social issues. “JICA is committed to supporting entrepreneurs in developing sustainable solutions that tackle GBV. By fostering innovation within Kenya’s startup ecosystem, we can address GBV in a dynamic and impactful manner,” she said.
Mentorship and Capacity Building
Over the past six weeks, the Innovate Against GBV programme has provided participants with mentorship and strategic business guidance, enabling them to refine their ideas into viable solutions. According to Patricia Jumi, Managing Director of GrowthAfrica, “Entrepreneurship can act as a vehicle for social impact, creating solutions that go beyond profit to address issues deeply affecting communities.”
The entrepreneurs presented diverse solutions, ranging from technological innovations to community-driven interventions, each designed to create a future free from GBV.
Innovative Solutions in Action
The initiatives showcased at the event reflect a variety of approaches:
- Heels4Pads by Angela Waweru focuses on providing affordable menstrual products to promote dignity and reduce vulnerabilities for women.
- ConnectHer by Consolata Waithaka aims to build support networks for survivors, fostering community resilience.
- Safework App by Emmy Moorhouse and Steve Otieno enhances workplace safety through reporting mechanisms and resources.
- Klinik Telehealth by Steve Dimba provides remote medical support to GBV survivors, increasing access to care in underserved areas.
These are just a few examples of how entrepreneurs are developing practical solutions to address the complex issue of GBV.
Collaboration and Multi-Stakeholder Engagement
The Innovate Against GBV programme is a testament to the power of collaboration. JICA, NGEC, and Nairobi County Government, alongside implementing partner GrowthAfrica, have created a platform where entrepreneurs can connect with investors and stakeholders. This collaborative effort ensures that GBV solutions are comprehensive, well-supported, and scalable.
TDB Group, the event host, recognises the importance of supporting initiatives addressing societal challenges. “At TDB Group, we strongly support women empowerment and gender mainstreaming. Nearly half of our staff are women, and over 50% of the jobs supported by our loans are held by women,” said Sheila Amule, Group Executive, People and Organisational Development at TDB.
A Collective Vision for a Future Free of GBV
Kenya’s commitment to addressing GBV through innovation and entrepreneurship offers hope for a future free from violence. By empowering local entrepreneurs and fostering a collaborative ecosystem, the Innovate Against GBV programme demonstrates that impactful solutions are within reach.
As these entrepreneurs continue to develop and scale their solutions, Kenya moves closer to a society where GBV is a thing of the past. Through continued support, mentorship, and collaboration, the nation is proving that innovation can be a powerful tool in the fight against GBV.
