The Civil Society Organization (CSO) Network has been at the forefront of promoting women’s participation and leadership in peacebuilding efforts in Western Kenya. Through various initiatives, we have empowered women to actively engage in local governance, peace, and security processes.
Project Highlights:
2022: Amplifying Women’s Voices in Prevention of Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG)
In 2022, we launched a project aimed at amplifying women’s voices in preventing violence against women and girls. This initiative focused on enhancing women’s roles in peacebuilding and conflict resolution within their communities.
2023: Enhancing the Role of Grassroots Women Leaders
Building on our previous efforts, the 2023 project sought to increase the role and agency of grassroots women leaders for meaningful engagement and participation in local governance, peace, and security processes in Bungoma and Vihiga Counties. This initiative emphasized the importance of women’s leadership in fostering sustainable peace and security.
2024: Consolidating Women’s Leadership in Local Governance
In 2024, we implemented a project that amplifies and consolidates women’s leadership in local governance, peace, and security processes in Bungoma and Vihiga counties. This project aimed to strengthen women’s leadership capacities and ensure their active participation in decision-making processes.
Our projects have significantly enhanced women’s leadership in peace and security through shared learning and the establishment of cross-community solidarity. While women in different regions may face unique challenges, they often encounter similar barriers in advancing peace processes, ensuring women’s participation, and addressing gender-based violence. UNSCR 1325 recognizes the critical role of women in preventing and resolving conflicts and in peacebuilding.
Over the past years, our Women in Peace and Security (WPS) projects have shown significant progress in strengthening the participation of women in peace processes. This progress is evident in the increased knowledge and the growing number of women now participating in decision-making tables discussing women’s peace and security, promoting gender equality, and preventing and protecting against gender-based violence.