Thesis:

Determinants of sexual and gender-based violence in Kilifi north sub county, Kilifi county, Kenya

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence is a persistent global and national challenge that undermines the dignity, safety, and well-being of women and girls. In Kenya, despite the existence of legal and policy frameworks such as the Sexual Offences Act, 2006 and the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act, 2015, SGBV remains prevalent, particularly in regions like Kilifi North Sub-County. High rates of intimate partner violence, child sexual abuse, and early marriages have been reported, often normalized by cultural beliefs and exacerbated by poverty, weak enforcement mechanisms, and limited access to survivor support services. Although several interventions have been implemented nationally, the local drivers of SGBV in Kilifi North remain insufficiently examined, and evidence-based measures to combat it remain underdeveloped. This study was guided by three specific objectives: to examine the socio-cultural determinants of SGBV, to explore the economic determinants of SGBV, and to identify possible measures for eradicating SGBV in Kilifi North Sub-County. Grounded in Routine Activity Theory and Gender Role Theory, the research applied a descriptive survey design within a mixed methods framework. The study was conducted in Kilifi North, drawing from a target population comprising adult community members, local leaders, and service providers. A sample was selected through stratified and purposive sampling, and data were collected using structured questionnaires and key informant interviews. Instruments were piloted and validated through expert review and reliability testing, with a Cronbach's Alpha of 0.81 confirming internal consistency. Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, while qualitative data were thematically analyzed to provide contextual depth. The first objective examined socio-cultural determinants and revealed that 65% of respondents justified wife-beating under certain conditions, while 54% viewed it as a private matter, and 53% agreed that community elders often discourage formal legal recourse. Patriarchal beliefs about male dominance were strongly upheld by 47% of respondents. The second objective explored economic factors and found that 69% of respondents depended on partners financially, with 64% reporting that lack of income prevented them from leaving abusive relationships. Furthermore, 63% noted that mencontrolled household finances, and 72% supported financial empowerment as a strategy for reducing SGBV. The third objective assessed potential interventions and found that 64% of respondents were aware of SGBV laws, but only 53% had access to awareness campaigns. While 75% acknowledged the presence of safe shelters, 79% believed limited access to survivor services discouraged reporting. The study concludes that deeply embedded cultural norms, financial dependency, and inadequate support structures collectively perpetuate SGBV in Kilifi North Sub-County. It recommends integrated, community-based interventions targeting harmful gender norms, expanding economic opportunities for women, and strengthening legal and support systems. Further research is recommended to explore the intersection of SGBV with marginalized groups and to evaluate the long-term impact of preventive interventions across urban and rural contexts.