Usikimye - Njeri wa Migwi’s Lifeline for Survivors of Gender-Based Violence in East Africa

Introduction

Njeri wa Migwi, a Kenyan intersectional feminist and human rights defender, is the founder of Usikimye—a grassroots organisation that has become a sanctuary for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV). With over 80,000 followers and a growing national presence, Njeri’s work through Usikimye has transformed lives, challenged systemic injustice, and inspired a movement rooted in healing, empowerment, and accountability.

The Birth of Usikimye

Founded in 2019, Usikimye—which means “Don’t Be Silent” in Swahili—was born from Njeri’s personal experiences with domestic violence and her desire to create a safe space for others. What began with her hosting three survivors in her own home has grown into a full-fledged rescue and care centre. The organisation was established to respond to the urgent need for survivor-centred support in Kenya, where gender-based violence remains a pervasive issue. Njeri’s first case involved a woman who had reported her abusive husband to the police but had nowhere to go afterwards. That moment revealed a critical gap in the system—and Njeri stepped in to fill it.

Usikimye’s Impact

1. Emergency Shelter and Transitional Housing

Usikimye operates a secure, undisclosed shelter in Nairobi where survivors can stay for up to 90 days. During the COVID-19 pandemic alone, the shelter hosted over 100 women and children, handling more than 450 cases 1.

2. Comprehensive Survivor Services

The organisation provides a wide range of trauma-informed services, including:

1. Medical evaluation and treatment
2. Emergency contraceptives and forensic analysis
3. Psychological counselling and trauma support
4. Legal aid and paralegal services
5. Food, clothing, and hygiene supplies

3. Community Empowerment and Education

Usikimye also runs outreach programs to educate communities about GBV, challenge harmful cultural norms, and advocate for survivor rights. Their campaigns include school visits, public forums, and digital activism.

4. Femicide Accountability and Community Empowerment (FACE) Program

This initiative addresses the alarming rise in femicide in Kenya. Usikimye advocates for femicide to be declared a crime and works to hold perpetrators accountable while empowering communities to protect women and girls 2.

5. Child Protection and Nutrition

Through the Watoto Washibe program, Usikimye addresses food insecurity among vulnerable children, helping them stay in school and avoid exploitation 2.

A Survivor-Centred Approach

Usikimye’s work is grounded in feminist, trauma-informed, and survivor-centered principles. The organization recognizes that healing requires more than emergency intervention—it demands long-term support and systemic change. Survivors are not treated as victims but as individuals with agency, dignity, and the right to reclaim their lives.

Lessons from Njeri’s Journey

1. Resilience is Transformative

Njeri’s story illustrates how personal pain can be transformed into powerful advocacy. Her ability to rise from trauma and use her experiences to uplift others is a testament to the strength of the human spirit.

2. Silence is Not an Option

Her mantra, “Don’t Be Silent,” challenges the culture of silence that often surrounds abuse. Njeri’s work reminds us that speaking out is the first step toward justice and healing.

3. Community Matters

Through Usikimye, Njeri has built a network of support that extends far beyond individual cases. Her work emphasises that healing and justice are collective efforts that require community involvement.

4. Courage Inspires Change

Njeri’s bravery has sparked a movement. Her story has inspired others to confront their own realities, seek help, and become advocates themselves.

Reflection

Usikimye is more than an organisation—it is a movement of hope, healing, and justice. Under Njeri wa Migwi’s leadership, it has become a transformative force in Kenya’s fight against gender-based violence. By creating safe spaces, offering essential services, and advocating for systemic change, Usikimye empowers survivors to reclaim their voices and their futures. Njeri’s journey reminds us that one person’s courage can ignite a revolution. Her work teaches us that silence is complicity, and that true change begins when we choose to listen, to act, and to stand together.