The VAC Survey
Blog post: Prevention of Violence Against Children
Violence against children is a global human rights violation that spans every country worldwide and affects millions of children each year. According to the World Report on Violence and Health, child abuse or maltreatment “constitutes all forms of physical and/or emotional ill-treatment, sexual abuse, neglect, or negligent treatment or commercial or other exploitation, resulting in actual or potential harm to a child’s health, survival, development or dignity in the context of a relationship of responsibility, trust or power.
It is estimated that over 1 billion children globally experience physical, sexual or emotional violence annually. Children experience different types of interpersonal violence that tend to occur at different stages of their development. These can include direct experiences of physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, as well as indirect experiences such as witnessing violence in homes, schools, and communities.
Violence has severe consequences for the health and well-being of children. The impact of violence against children goes far beyond the initial incident, and those who have experienced emotional, physical, and sexual violence may experience severe short- to long-term health and social consequences. These health problems can span into adulthood including anxiety or depressive disorders, cardiovascular health problems, and diabetes.
In sub-Saharan Africa, scientific research on the prevalence and incidence of violence and exploitation of children, adolescents, and young adults is still in its nascent stages in most countries, including Kenya.
In 2016, the World Health Organization (WHO) released INSPIRE: Seven Strategies for Ending Violence Against Children, a technical package that includes evidence-based strategies with demonstrated success in preventing and responding to violence in childhood. The seven INSPIRE strategies include:
Implementation and enforcement of laws
Norms and values
Safe environments
Parent and caregiver support
Income and economic strengthening
Response and support services
Education and life skills
Many studies and surveys have been conducted worldwide including in Kenya. The more recent one being Violence Against Children Survey (VACS) 2019. So much data and information is available in the survey which translates to more action needed on the ground.
In a recent workshop on the dissemination of VACS 2019 in Kenya’s Laikipia County, some highlights and key elements were shared, which included among others, six strategic areas which need to be addressed i.e Laws and policies by relevant bodies, family support and strengthening, education and imparting life skills, community sensitization while addressing norms and values, response mechanisms and support services, and coordination among key stakeholders.
The culmination of the dissemination of this survey was a walk campaign around Nanyuki town themed, SPOT IT! STOP IT! End Violence Against Children.
Children under the Simama Project program were part of this and even graced the occasion with performances. They were also educated on how to identify and report any acts of violence which may be experienced.
Here at Simama, we consider our vital role and responsibility in Response and Support services and we continue to work together with partners to ensure children are given the dignity and opportunity they deserve.
