Press Release: AMWIK Report Exposes the Growing Threat of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence Against Women in Public Roles
Nairobi, Kenya : The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) has launched a vital report that highlights the growing issue of Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TF-GBV) against women in public life. Coinciding with the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, this report emphasizes the urgency of addressing online harassment and creating safer digital spaces for women.
Based on a survey conducted among 96 respondents, 80 of whom provided consistent insights, the report reveals a disturbing trend: over 60% of participants reported experiences of online harassment, primarily on platforms like Facebook and WhatsApp. Most respondents were women (81%), representing diverse backgrounds, including human rights defenders, community leaders, and professionals in media and civil society.
During the launch event, AMWIK Executive Director Ms. Queenter Mbori stressed the dire consequences of TF-GBV. “This emerging form of violence undermines women’s participation in public discourse, silencing them and stripping them of their right to freely express themselves online,” she stated. Queenter highlighted the connection between online violence and physical harm, such as femicide, noting that digital abuse often extends into the real world, causing severe emotional distress and reputational damage.
In her remarks, Queenter called for a collective approach to address TF-GBV, emphasizing the need for more robust legal frameworks, improved reporting mechanisms on digital platforms, and greater psychosocial support for victims. “No single entity can tackle TF-GBV alone. It is critical that we work together—government, civil society, and the private sector—to create safer online spaces for women and girls,” she asserted.
To combat TF-GBV effectively, AMWIK recommends establishing dedicated reporting centers and hotlines that provide victims with safe avenues to report incidents of online harassment. These centers would not only facilitate immediate assistance but also help gather crucial data on the prevalence of TF-GBV. Additionally, enhancing digital safety is essential; promoting robust security measures such as password managers and two-factor authentication can empower women to protect their online identities effectively. Training sessions on cybersecurity best practices should be organized to further equip individuals with necessary skills.
Improving digital literacy is another critical step in equipping women with the tools they need to navigate online platforms safely. Educational initiatives should focus on data privacy and recognizing signs of online abuse, fostering a culture of security awareness. Furthermore, the psychological impact of TF-GBV necessitates comprehensive psychosocial support services for victims. Providing counseling services and support groups can help individuals cope with emotional distress and rebuild their confidence.
Creating effective legal remedies for victims is essential for ensuring accountability in cases of online violence. Advocacy for stronger laws addressing online harassment must be coupled with awareness campaigns informing victims about their rights and available legal options. Additionally, building strong community support networks is crucial in combating TF-GBV; these networks can provide solidarity among women who have faced similar challenges, encouraging collective action against online violence.
Finally, mentorship programs aimed at guiding women in safely navigating digital spaces are vital. Experienced mentors can share strategies for managing online presence and responding effectively to harassment, thereby empowering women to engage confidently in public discourse.
Highlighting the role of technology in this fight against TF-GBV, Ito Misako, UNESCO Regional Advisor for Communication and Information in Africa, remarked that “Artificial Intelligence is the biggest animal in the media today,” driving innovative solutions to tackle this issue. She emphasized how AI shapes narratives, amplifies awareness, and redefines strategies to address and prevent online abuse.
Ms. Phobe Makungu, representing the Principal Secretary for Gender and Affirmative Action, praised AMWIK’s efforts, describing the report as a timely contribution to the ongoing fight against violence in both physical and digital spaces. She acknowledged that while technology offers numerous benefits in connectivity and communication, it has also opened new avenues for violence.
The report by AMWIK underscores the urgent need for enhanced safety measures in digital spaces to protect women in public roles from TF-GBV. For further details, the full report is accessible here.
About AMWIK
The Association of Media Women in Kenya (AMWIK) is a non-profit organization established in 1982 that advocates for women’s rights in media and communication. AMWIK’s mission is to promote an informed and gender-responsive society through professional media practices that uphold human rights. For more information, please contact Denis Mbau at +254 724988258 or mbau@amwik.org.
