Civil Societies have sustained calls to government to expedite compensation of survivors of the 2007 post election violence.
National Victims and Survivors Network representative Wacira Waheire urged the government to implement the recommendations of the Truth, Justice, and Reconciliation Commission (TJRC) report.
The report emphasises the importance of reparations for victims of human rights abuses, including financial compensation, restitution, rehabilitation and support for rebuilding their lives.
He spoke on Tuesday at Makina Ward in Kibra when Kenya Transitional Justice Network commemorated the International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations and for the Dignity of Victims with Survivors of Post-Election Violence.
During the event, a survivor of the 2007 post-election violence bravely shared her story, highlighting the physical and emotional challenges she faces daily.
She revealed that a bullet is still lodged in her body and pleaded with the government to expedite compensation as she continues to struggle to rebuild her life.
“My business was brought down due to the skirmishes. I have never recovered,” she said.
She added that her children are always in and out of school due to fees arrears.
Utu Wetu Executive Director, Yvonne Oyieke, acknowledged the challenges faced in advocating for justice and accountability.
"There is need for continued engagement and pressure on the government, particularly in light of Kenya's unique nature of electoral processes," she said.
Oyieke urged civil society organisations and survivors to persevere until justice is served.
Grace Agenda team lead Jacqueline Mutere based in Kibra emphasised the importance of unity among survivors of post-election sexual violence.
"Continue demanding justice within your respective groups and networks, because there is strength in your collective actions," she encouraged the survivors.
Further, Mutere expressed concern for the ongoing trauma experienced by survivors and highlighted the critical need for psychosocial support services.
She also underscored the significance of initiatives and programmes that promote reconciliation, healing and social cohesion within divided communities.
Mutere called for community dialogues, memorialisation efforts, educational reforms and cultural initiatives to foster understanding and unity.
The Kenya Transitional Justice Network said it remains committed to advocating for truth, justice and reparations and will continue working tirelessly to ensure the rights and dignity of victims are upheld.
The International Day for the Right to the Truth Concerning Gross Human Rights Violations, traditionally observed on the 24th of each month, was celebrated on March 26, 2024, by the Kenya Transitional Justice Network to honour the resilience and dignity of survivors of post-election violence.