Goto main content

“I want women to know they have rights!”

Rights
Kenya

Christine, 32, lives in West Pokot County, Kenya. A witness of the armed violence that has torn her region apart, she’s now one of Handicap International’s community peace representatives. Every day, she raises awareness in communities and helps women learn more about their rights.

Christine, 32, is one of Handicap International’s community peace representatives in Western Kenya.

© E.Cartuyvels / Handicap International

Christine, 32, lives in Western Kenya . A mother of three children, she works in the fields and sells vegetables at the market. Since she was a girl, Christine has seen communities in her region torn apart by violence.

“I didn’t have to think twice about becoming a peace ambassador,” she explains.

In September 2014, Christine took part in an awareness session conducted by Handicap International on reducing armed violence and sexual gender based violence, and is today able to pass on the message to her community in ad hoc meetings.

“Marriage, burials, village celebrations are all opportunities for us to discuss the impact of violence with villagers. I talk to the women. Many have their first child at 13. I remind them of the importance of not becoming a mother too early, and of finishing school.”

“I try to open their eyes. No, domestic violence isn’t normal. Nor is it normal for your husband to sleep with other women. Men are more reluctant; they ask me what my problem is. But I don’t care: I want women to know they have rights!” explains Christine, her eyes sparkling.

Date published: 24/11/16

COUNTRIES

Where we work

Read more

New report on access to education for adolescent girls with disabilities
© P. Gairapipli / HI
Inclusion Rights

New report on access to education for adolescent girls with disabilities

Globally, 63 million adolescents are out of school, and adolescent girls with disabilities are among the most excluded. They face challenges like stigma, discrimination, and a lack of support that make staying in school incredibly difficult. HI’s new report, released on International Day of Education "Beyond Access: Ensuring the Continuity of Education for Adolescent Girls with Disabilities", highlights the struggles and levers for adolescent girls with disabilities to stay and progress in education.

Ukraine, 1,000 days on: civilians are still the main victims of armed violence
© M.Monier / HI 2024
Emergency Explosive weapons Health Rehabilitation Rights

Ukraine, 1,000 days on: civilians are still the main victims of armed violence

20 November 2024 marked 1,000 days since the escalation of the war between Russia and Ukraine. The impact of this war on civilians is catastrophic on many levels.

Facilitating access to healthcare for Altiplano communities in Bolivia
© M. Campos / HI
Rehabilitation Rights

Facilitating access to healthcare for Altiplano communities in Bolivia

Rosalía's son, Jair, was born with cerebral palsy following a difficult birth. Their journey through the healthcare system has been fraught with difficulties but Jair is receiving the support he needs.

FOLLOW US