As part of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Tuungane CBO, together with other Toolkit Organizers within Kilifi under the Peace Brigades International project, hosted the Kilifi Art Festival at Kibaoni social hall; a vibrant platform using art to raise awareness, amplify voices, and inspire action against GBV. Guided by the theme “Art for Justice: Transforming Voices into Action,” the festival brought together GBV survivors, women human rights defenders, local artists, CSO representatives, Kilifi County representatives and community members from across Kilifi County.
“The aim of this festival was to use art as a tool to highlight the experiences of GBV survivors, engage the community in meaningful dialogue, and inspire collective action toward gender justice,” said Janet Motah, Head of Programs at Tuungane CBO. “Through creativity, we are not just raising awareness—we are empowering voices that are often unheard.”
The festival celebrated creativity, courage, and resilience. GBV champions showcased their talents through beadwork, necklaces, clothing, paintings, and other handmade crafts. Each piece told a story, reflecting personal experiences of violence, hope, and empowerment while providing participants with recognition and opportunities for income generation.
The event also came alive with theatre and performance art. Skits, spoken word, choral verses, and participatory performances highlighted survivors’ experiences and community responses to GBV. These performances sparked reflection, dialogue, and meaningful conversations on gender equality and actionable ways to prevent GBV.
A key highlight was a dynamic panel discussion featuring women human rights defenders, GBV champions, a representative from the County Gender Desk, a GBV survivor, a sport for development ambassador, and a theatre performer. The panel shared experiences, strategies, and actionable steps for GBV prevention while engaging the audience in dialogue to deepen understanding and promote community action.
“The power of sports and art cannot be underestimated in advocating for a GBV-free society,” emphasized Samuel Kahindi, Finance Officer at Tuungane and Sport for Development Ambassador. “I urge everyone to embrace sports and art as tools for empowerment, dialogue, and community transformation.”
The Kilifi Art Festival showed that art is more than expression, it is a powerful tool for justice. By transforming voices into action, Tuungane CBO and its partners continue to empower communities, amplify survivor stories, and inspire collective action to prevent GBV in Kilifi County.