In 2018, Flone Initiative experienced significant growth and accomplishments, focusing on strengthening organizational capacity, promoting women in transportation in Kenya, addressing gender-based violence (GBV) in the transport sector, and conducting various impactful initiatives. Here’s a summary of their key achievements:
- East Africa Women in Transport Conference: Flone Initiative organized the first-ever Eastern Africa Women in Transportation Conference, gathering stakeholders from Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, Rwanda, and Ethiopia. The event addressed women’s empowerment in transport and inclusively involved drivers and conductors from various transport sectors.
- Wamama wa Mathree: Flone Initiative developed a play called “Wamama wa Mathree” in collaboration with women in Nairobi’s matatu industry. The play aimed to provide a platform for these women to share their stories and challenge societal perceptions about women working in the matatu sector.
- Women in Transport Capacity Building Workshops: Flone Initiative conducted workshops covering mental health, road safety, customer service, gender-based violence, financial management, and disability awareness. These workshops aimed to empower women in the transportation industry personally and professionally.
- Graffiti Project: Flone Initiative initiated a project to raise awareness about GBV and challenge the objectification of women in graffiti art on matatus (public minibusses). The project engaged graffiti artists to create art with messages against GBV, aiming to promote safer public spaces.
- Public Awareness Animation Videos: Flone Initiative collaborated with Medina Agencies to develop animation videos promoting the “Report It! Stop It!” platform, which allows reporting of sexual harassment incidents. These videos aimed to raise awareness about GBV and encourage reporting through social media platforms.
Awards: Naomi Mwaura, Flone’s Founding Director, won the “Challenging Norms Powering Economies” challenge, securing funding to expand Flone’s programs into Tanzania and Uganda over the next three years.
Overall, Flone Initiative made significant strides in promoting gender equality, empowering women in transportation, and combating GBV in the transport sector during 2018.
Read and download the report HERE