Rachel Ruto Launches “My Dear Daughter” Campaign in Narok
First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto has officially launched the My Dear Daughter campaign, a new survivor- and mother-led movement designed to protect girls from harmful cultural practices.
The launch took place on Tuesday, November 25, 2025, at Ole Sheda Grounds in Narok County, during Kenya’s national opening of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
This national event marked Kenya’s participation in the annual global initiative that begins every year on November 25 — the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women — and runs until December 10, which is celebrated as Human Rights Day.
The campaign is meant to intensify conversations, awareness, and commitments toward ending all forms of violence against women and girls.
During her speech, the First Lady explained that the My Dear Daughter campaign focuses on ending female genital mutilation (FGM), stopping child marriages, and protecting girls’ rights, especially in communities where such practices are still common, including among pastoralist groups like the Maasai.
She stressed that this movement is guided by the voices of mothers and survivors who understand firsthand the pain and long-term harm caused by these traditions.
“There are times when the pain of our daughters demands to be seen, not counted. There are moments when statistics turn into real stories, when data becomes daughters,” Rachel Ruto said, highlighting the human cost behind every case of violence.
She noted that violence against women is not just a social challenge but a serious violation of basic human rights.
Rachel Ruto firmly stated that FGM and child marriage should never be mistaken for cultural rites of passage. She described them as practices that rob girls of their futures, calling them “theft of life.” She also recognized community elders who have been working to change outdated practices and protect girls.
The First Lady clarified that the program is not meant to destroy culture. Instead, it aims to help communities preserve positive traditions while abandoning harmful ones.
She called on fathers to take an active role in safeguarding their daughters, reminding the community that culture should guide and uplift the girl child — not imprison her. “Culture should be a crown, not a chain,” she said, urging people to focus on building a better future instead of defending harmful practices from the past.
Wiper leader Kalonzo Musyoka echoed her message, stating, “Violence against women is a darkness that steals too many dreams, too many lives, and too much hope.” He emphasized the need for communities to create safe environments where survivors feel supported and can openly report cases of gender-based violence without fear.
Rachel Ruto acknowledged the cultural sensitivity surrounding these issues but encouraged women—especially mothers—to speak boldly and protect their daughters from practices that degrade their dignity.
She applauded all stakeholders working to end GBV and reaffirmed that the Kenya Kwanza administration remains fully committed to supporting the cause and strengthening efforts to protect women and girls across the country.
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