Why we should not keep quiet about cases of sexual violence
A reenactment of an unwanted sexual advances by two models along the streets of Nairobi streets. Women often endure unwanted sexual advances from men while out running their errands.
Sexual harassment can be loosely defined as unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favours and other verbal or physical conduct of sexual nature.
Cases of sexual assault have risen significantly in recent years. Both genders are victims of this crime but it is a more common experience for women.
An estimated 736 million women across the globe have been subjected to intimate partner and non-partner sexual violence.
In Kenya women and girls experience sexual violence more than men and boys. It’s estimated that 14 percent of women and six percent of men aged 15-49 have experienced sexual violence at least once in their lifetime.
It is sad that women get sexually harassed every day and some are not even aware of these violations. There are three types of assault; physical, verbal/written and visual.
Spanking a woman because you think her behind looks good is a form of physical assault. Looking at a woman suggestively and winking is visual harassment. Verbal abuse could constitute whistling and cat-calling.
Short skirt
But of concern is the fact that women are often blamed after a violation, with violators creating all manner of excuses to justify their crimes, such as she was wearing an explicit or short skirt or dress. Sexual assault victims often struggle with shame and poor mental health.
They are at a higher risk of getting stroke and dementia, a US study shows. The disruptions to blood flow in the brain caused by trauma may contribute to disorders. Suicide cases also go hand in hand with sexual violence.
Schools, institutions and the community at large should teach children about this crime early enough so that they are aware when they are violated.
The government has an obligation to tackle violence against all genders at all times. Concerned agencies should make sure they reach out to victims and that they get help. Kenya’s gender-based violence hotline 1195 is available 24 hours, it also looks into assault, rape, child neglect and child marriage. Do not be silenced.
Zahrah, 20, studies communication and media at Maseno University. Are you aged 10-20 and would like to be Nation’s young reporter? Email your 400-600-word article to [email protected]
