In a bold move to combat the rising cases of rape and defilement, the Mulika Campaign was launched today at Umama Playgrounds in Kayole, Nairobi County. Combining a vibrant basketball tournament with urgent advocacy, the initiative seeks to expose systemic failures in addressing gender-based violence while empowering youth to demand accountability. Community leaders, coaches, and activists gathered to champion the cause, emphasizing the need for safe spaces and collective action to protect vulnerable children and teenagers.
Moses Musosi, a coach and co-founder of the Far East Basketball Association, highlighted some of the challenges caused by Femicide. “We’ve had a lot of cases of femicide, rape, and defilement,” he said. “This initiative, this tournament, and the Mulika Campaign aim to give victims a voice and find solutions. Most importantly, we want to keep young people safe and engaged.”
Musosi highlighted the role of basketball in driving change. “Basketball is a perfect tool to bring young people together and find solutions to their challenges,” he explained. “It’s a sport many young people love, and through it, we can share information and connect victims to helpful services.”
The campaign also focuses on schools, where many cases of abuse occur. “Teachers have reported cases of rape by family members, but these are often kept secret,” Musosi noted. “We are intentional about ensuring all schools in Kayole and Komarock have the information they need to protect young people.”
Esther Njeri, the digital campaign strategist for Mulika, underscored the campaign’s broader mission. “Mulika seeks to expose those who fail our girls by ignoring or remaining silent about rape and defilement,” she said. “We are using sports to position youth as advocates for accountability and their rights.”
Njeri pointed out the stark contrast in how sexual violence is perceived across Nairobi. “In the ghetto, teenage pregnancies are common, but in affluent areas, it’s seen as unusual. We are here to challenge this normalization and demand action from the government,” she stated. “A crime against a child is a crime against the government. We need follow-ups on cases and accountability from leaders.”
Thomas Akendo, a peace practitioner and spokesperson for Nairobi’s sub-counties, connected the campaign to broader peacebuilding efforts. “Gender-based violence disrupts peace,” he said. “In informal settlements like Kayole, where many live on less than a dollar a day, sexual violence is prevalent. This campaign is crucial for promoting peace and justice.”
The Mulika Campaign plans to expand beyond Eastlands. “We will take this initiative to Westlands and other parts of Nairobi, even to Kakamega,” Njeri announced. “This is a progressive movement that will continue to address these issues across communities.”
Parents and teachers were also urged to play a role. “Parents, allow your kids to find safe spaces like sports and arts,” Musosi advised. “A basketball pitch or football field can be a safe haven. We are here to mentor and guide these young people.”
With a goal of reaching 10,000 young people directly and indirectly, the campaign aims to create mentors and peer leaders who will champion the fight against gender-based violence in their communities. Supported by Resolve and the Nairobi County government, the Mulika Campaign is a beacon of hope for many.
