Self-defense training is emerging as a crucial tool in empowering young girls to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV). Advocates argue that alongside education and awareness, equipping girls with self-defense skills, such as Taekwondo, could be a game-changer in enhancing their safety and confidence.
At the Rowland Training Camp in Nairobi, young girls are undergoing structured Taekwondo training sessions, equipping them with techniques to counter potential assault. The initiative, organized by Polycom Girls in partnership with the United Nations Population Fund (UNFPA), aims to provide proactive protection measures amid rising cases of GBV.
Anti-GBV campaigners emphasize that self-defense is not about promoting aggression but rather fostering preparedness and resilience. They are calling for the integration of self-defense training into school curriculums, arguing that these skills can serve as a powerful deterrent against violence.
Several non-governmental organizations and GBV advocates attended the training sessions to support the cause, including the Italian Agency for Development, the Center for Rights Education and Awareness (CREAW), the Coalition on Violence Against Women (COVAW), the Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics (FIGO) Kenya, Uwezo Foundation, and Shining Hope for Communities (SHOFCO), among others.
With GBV cases on the rise, such initiatives are becoming increasingly essential in safeguarding vulnerable groups. Advocates believe that by combining self-defense training with awareness campaigns and legal support, girls and women can be better equipped to protect themselves and challenge the culture of violence in society.