KERICHO: University students have been challenged to explore the latest trends, share innovative solutions, find research gaps, and discuss strategies that can offer a safer digital environment in the quest to fight Technologically Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV). Speaking during the official opening of the TFGBV Conference held at Kabianga University, the Advisor to the President on Women’s Rights, Ms. Harriet Chiggai, called for proactive measures in addressing the issues of technology that perpetrate harmful acts against women and children in society.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ms. Chiggai appealed to internet service providers, Data Protection Units, and Information Communication and Technology sectors to institute protective measures against vices such as sextortion, cyberstalking, body-shaming, sexual exploitation, trolling, bullying, and online personification that affect online users daily. She emphasized the need to harness technology to protect and empower victims, facilitating their
ability to report incidents and access support services from relevant institutions.
Ms. Chiggai highlighted the alarming statistics, noting that 90 percent of young adults in Nairobi have witnessed Gender-Based Violence, with 39 percent experiencing it personally. She revealed that male students account for 78.6 percent of GBV perpetrators, followed by female students at 11.5 percent, and male teaching staff at 5.4 percent. Despite these figures, she encouraged students to leverage technology and social media platforms to prevent GBV rather than promote it.
Chiggai elaborated on the data protection laws, underscoring the right to access and delete personal data and the constitutional protections against GBV, which guarantee equality and freedom from discrimination. She reiterated the importance of past patterns of discrimination being addressed and the constitutional rights to freedom and security ensuring protection from violence.
She also mentioned existing laws such as the sexual offenses rights, the Pr
otection Against Domestic Violence Act, and the Computer Misuse and Cyber Security Act, which deem indecent and grossly offensive communication illegal. Violations could result in a Sh20 million fine or imprisonment of up to 10 years, with ignorance of the law offering no defense.
Despite the legislative framework, Chiggai expressed concern over the persistent rise of Gender-Based Violence, noting the absence of laws specifically addressing Technologically Facilitated Gender-Based Violence in the digital space. She proposed the use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) Powered Early warning systems to help identify patterns, predict risks, and intervene more effectively.
The conference was also attended by the Kericho Woman Representative, Beatrice Kemei, who lent her support to the cause.
