The 16 Days of Activism campaign was launched on the 24th November, 2023 at the University of Nairobi, to kick off the Launch of the Activate Nairobi in partnership with Italian Institute of Culture (IIC) and Italian Agency for Development Cooperation (AICS). The aim of the campaign is to raise awareness, mobilize advocacy and inspire action to combat gender-based violence.

The event was inaugurated by Ambassador Roberto Natali, Kenya Ambassador to Italy and H.E Anne Wang’ombe, Principal Secretary, Gender and Affirmative Action in the Ministry of Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage. In attendance also was Ms. Elena Gallenca, Director of Italian Institute of Culture, Mr. Giovanni Grandi and Head of Italian Agency for Development Cooperation in Nairobi among other dignitaries.

“It is time to break down barriers, bridge gender divides, and empower women in the fight against climate change”, Dr Vijoo Rattansi, Chancellor of the University of Nairobi as she advocated for women empowerment in all facets. It is essential to recognize and harness the unique contributions and capabilities that women bring to the table in this battle for our planet's future.

The Deputy Vice Chancellor, Academic Affairs, Professor Julius Ogeng'o represented the VC, Prof Stephen Kiama. “At the University of Nairobi, our commitment to fostering a culture of gender equality is deeply embedded in our policies, particularly the Workplace Policy on Gender-Based Violence and the Gender Policy and Development Framework”, the VC as he highlighted UoN’s commitment to the movement. “We aim to create opportunities that amplify the voices of women, recognizing their pivotal role in shaping our communities”, he said

H.E Anne Wang’ombe, in her virtual address, urged everybody to devote to the shared commitment of providing a more just and equitable community.

A powered up panel discussion followed which was spearheaded by distinguished guests like Ms. Charlene Ruto, Youth Champion, who urged netizens to continue championing for inclusivity, Ms. Elizabeth Wathuti - Founder of Green Generation Initiative who highlighted the climate challenges in Kenya and how women are the ones who struggle most in this instances putting out their resilience in such cases, MS. Francesca Di Matteo, the Deputy Director and Researcher, French Institute for Research in Africa who said collective action is the way forward and Dr. Mary Lucia Mbithi, a Senior Lecturer, Department of Economics and Development Studies University of Nairobi.

The 'Activate Nairobi' campaign will run until 10th December, with several impactful events to highlight the magnitude of violence against women.

For more information on the event visit:

https://www.youtube.com/live/BjKwYGJMpeU?si=fmeTnicLyGRNj1Gk