From Crisis to Compassion
How We Began the Fight Against GBV

On April 19th, 2019, the brutal murder of Dr. Ivy Wangechi at Moi Referral Training Hospital sent shockwaves across Kenya. But the horror didn't end there. Instead of widespread outrage and calls for justice, social media was flooded with chilling memes of axes, used as profile pictures, accompanied by threats against women.

For Njeri Migwi, a survivor of gender-based violence herself, this wasn't just another news story – it was a devastating betrayal. The very platforms that should have amplified cries for justice were instead fueling a culture of violence. Witnessing this, Njeri reached out to Stella Khachina, an aid practitioner. Together, they knew they had to act quickly. Their initial response was to create an online platform, a safe space where survivors' voices could be heard, where factual information about GBV could be disseminated, and where crucial referrals to relevant authorities could be provided. Within three months, the Facebook page became a lifeline, flooded with survivors reaching out for help on the ground. The sheer volume of these pleas revealed a devastating truth: the existing systems were failing. There were no safe havens, no places for these women to go. This realization ignited a new level of urgency. Usikimye expanded, providing safe houses and on-the-ground support, transforming from an online platform to a vital resource for survivors. From that moment, Usikimye became a testament to the power of collective action, and a promise to build a future where no voice is silenced. We are committed to continuing this journey, expanding our reach, and creating a society where everyone is safe from the scourge of sexual and gender-based violence. Their initial response was to create an online platform, a safe space where survivors' voices could be heard, where factual information about GBV could be disseminated, and where crucial referrals to relevant authorities could be provided.