Domestic gender-based violence and the potential offered by empowerment initiatives: The case of Makhokho, Western Kenya

Abstract

This research examines the prevalence of physical domestic gender-based violence (GBV) and its correlation to women's empowerment in Makhokho, Western Kenya. The study used community-based participatory research, combining quantitative and qualitative approaches. Quantitative data was collected through the use of questionnaires distributed to 105 married women in collaboration with Community Health Volunteers, supplemented by qualitative data from three focus-group discussions with Community Health Volunteers, women who participate in local economic empowerment groups, and community stakeholders. Based on the research findings, a hypothesized correlation between GBV and empowerment is not supported, and relationship between GBV and other variables, including age, education, and number and age of children, are statistically insignificant. The study, however, reveals a significant relationship between regular alcohol consumption by a woman's husband and her experiencing GBV. This shows that future projects in Makhokho aimed at reducing GBV should prioritize action against alcoholism.