UN Women, Kenyatta University (KU) and the Stockholm Environment Institute (SEI) have launched a report on Women and Public Transport in Nairobi.
The Women and Public Transport in Nairobi report identifies the public transport needs of women and the obstacles they face in accessing and using public transport. The report further aims to promote gender-responsive policymaking and influence decision-making towards gender equity in this essential service.
According to the study, more than 80% of women in the capital city have witnessed harassment in the form of verbal or other forms of emotional abuse. However, only 7% reported the incidents, with very little to no action taken against perpetrators.
“Only 1 percent of the actions taken after incidents of harassment led to the perpetrators being apprehended. Harassment, including sexual and emotional abuse while using public transport, may hinder women from accessing and fully exploiting economic opportunities and from providing or enjoying social services,” said Ms. Rukaya Mohammed UN Women Deputy Country Representative Kenya.
The findings further highlighted the need for measures to protect women commuters from continued victimization or harassment by matatu conductors marshals and fellow male passengers.
“Women commuters should be supported to report these incidents and survivors of sexual and gender-based violence in public transport provided with legal and psychosocial support,” said Prof. Judith Waudo, KU-WEE Hub Leader.
The Women and Public Transport in Nairobi Report is the culmination of efforts of UN Women, KU and SEI in collaboration with the Ministry of Transport, Infrastructure, Housing, Urban Development and Public Works, the National Transport and Road Safety Authority (NTSA), and the Nairobi Metropolitan Area Transport Authority (NaMATA).