Kenya: Security sector reform: Rethinking security forces
Never before has the question of peace and security been more pertinent on the African continent. The increasing militarization of Africa through external and internal forces as well as the rise of unstable democratic arrangements that have disallowed opportunities for expression of dissent and the exercise of freedoms is an indicator of the increasing need for this discourse.
SECURITY SECTOR REFORM: RETHINKING SECURITY FORCES
“Of the 12 women who were gang-raped, five said their attackers wore police uniforms,” (Diana Wambui, Fida, Daily Nation, 17/11/08)
UN reports have documented examples such as the MONUC civilian and military personnel who were accused of 150 cases of sexual exploitation and general abuse of civilians in the DRC (Mulgavh et al 2005).
Never before has the question of peace and security been more pertinent on the African continent. The increasing militarization of Africa through external and internal forces as well as the rise of unstable democratic arrangements that have disallowed opportunities for expression of dissent and the exercise of freedoms is an indicator of the increasing need for this discourse.
On the occasion of the International day on Violence against women, the conference reference group is pleased to contribute to ongoing debates and deepening analysis on impunity for sexual and gender based violence. Through a public forum on Security Sector Reform, we will engage in a critical analysis of the security sector’s attitudes towards gender violence how can the sector reform desirably. It is the aim of this forum is to begin to move the discussion of Sexual and Gender Based Violence to the broader domain of the security of civilians and the responsibility to protect.
Programme: 3.00 – 5.30
Panel Discussion:
Ms. Muthoni Wanyeki – Executive Director, Kenya Human Rights Commission Rtd. General
Rtd. General Lazaro Sumbeiywo - Chief IGAD Mediator, Sudanese Peace process.
Dr. Annie Chikwanha - Senior Researcher, African Human Security Initiative (AHSI) - Respondent
Public debate: 5.00 – 6.00
Moderated by Ms. Muthoni Wanyeki – Executive Director, Kenya Human Rights Commission
5.30: Tea and guests depart at leisure
Facilitated by:
ACORD in alliance with The Kenya Human Rights Commission, Action Aid International-Africa, The Great Lakes Parliamentary Forum on Peace - AMANI Forum, African Women’s Development Fund, International Planned Parenthood Federation, Fahamu and Urgent Action Fund-Africa.
When: 25th November 2008
Where: Panafric Hotel; 3.00 – 6.00 p.m.