Page 5 - April 2025 Newsletter

Taking GBV Awareness to the Heart of Communities

through Outreach

In April, Africa Youth Trust (AYT) continued to intensify grassroots outreach efforts across informal settlements under the Access to Justice and Security Project.
The focus remained on addressing sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) by directly engaging communities in Mukuru kwa Njenga and Mukuru kwa Reuben.
Led by Program Officer Teresah Monchari, AYT’s field team made up of paralegals and case managers—conducted a series of activities including public barazas,
door-to-door sensitization, and visits to local churches and schools. These forums created safe spaces for residents to learn about their rights, speak openly about
SGBV, and understand how to access support.
A key component of the outreach was the continued promotion of the 21094 SMS platform, a free and anonymous service that allows users to send the word
HELP via SMS to report SGBV or seek assistance. Survivors and even witnesses can use this tool to connect with legal, psychosocial, and medical support services
quickly and discreetly.
The outreach efforts received strong support from community leadership, with Mukuru kwa Njenga Area Chief Mr Evans Munene mobilizing residents and
supporting referrals to appropriate services.
“Through the interventions of Africa Youth Trust, we have witnessed a reduction in GBV cases reported to us, alongside a better-informed citizenry. They have
greatly supported my work,” he said.
As AYT continues to deepen its community engagement efforts, the organization remains committed to empowering residents with knowledge, tools, and support
mechanisms to prevent SGBV and ensure survivors can access justice and healing.

AYT field team, including system operators, paralegals, case managers, and the Project Officer pose for Duncan Muyale, a paralegal from AYT speaks with a community member during a one-on-one
a group photo ahead of a community outreach in Mukuru kwa Njenga.
outreach session focused on SGBV awareness and access to support.

Case manager Anthony Nzinii engages a Mukuru kwa Reuben resident in conversations on SGBV, Cecilia Wambua, a case manager engaging Mukuru kwa Reuben residents in candid
encouraging use of the 21094 SMS platform to report abuse or seek help.
conversations on SGBV, raising awareness about available support services and how to use the
21094 SMS platform.