In 2010, the government of Kenya conducted the first Violence Against Children and Youth Survey (VACS) and in 2011 they released a comprehensive Response Plan. Results from a second VACS report were released in 2020, showcasing a reduction in overall rates of violence – but there is still work to be done.

The government prioritized reducing violence against children and adolescents, understanding how the many intersections of gender-based violence and violence against children can perpetuate cycles of violence in communities.

Our approach to ending violence against adolescent girls in Kenya

From data to action: explore our partnership's work

Story

Girls with DREAMS

Across Kenya, PEPFAR’s DREAMS partnership is supporting young women to lead safe and healthy lives free from HIV.

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Champions for change

The photo exhibition, “Champions for change”, brings together personal stories showcasing how individual action can lead to a collective and forceful nationwide movement against gender-based violence.

Data

Hellen, Kenya. Photo courtesy of PEPFAR Kenya.

The government of Kenya prioritized reducing violence against children and adolescents, understanding how the many intersections of gender-based violence and violence against children can perpetuate cycles of violence in communities.

In 2010, the government conducted the first Violence Against Children and Youth Survey (VACS) and in 2011 they released a comprehensive Response Plan. Results from a second VACS report were released in 2020, showcasing a reduction in overall rates of violence – but there is still work to be done.

Action

Trezar enjoys some relaxing time after work. Photo courtesy of PEPFAR Kenya.

In 2011, Kenya passed the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act, criminalizing female genital mutilation. Kenya also passed the Marriage Bill 2011, which consolidates all marriage laws to remove any discriminatory provisions with respect to boys and girls, such as different ages for marriage.

Kenya’s Vision 2030 outlines child protection as one of the areas of intervention under the objectives for gender, youth, and vulnerable groups, with a focus on strengthening child protection systems.

Partnerships

Manyatta is a bustling metropolis and Vyona feels safe in it. She loves eating chips from the roadside vendors. Photo courtesy of PEPFAR Kenya.

Gender-based violence continues to increase the risk of HIV infection and is a barrier to HIV prevention, treatment, and care. Over the past 15 years, PEPFAR has helped save and improve millions of lives, while also transforming the global HIV/AIDS response.

One program focused on preventing gender-based violence is the DREAMS partnership, which aims to reduce new HIV infections and violence among adolescent girls and young women aged 10-24 in 10 sub-saharan countries.