Former Nairobi Governor Mike Sonko has urged men across Kenya to break the cycle of domestic violence and choose peace in their homes. He shared the appeal in a video posted on Instagram after his daughter allegedly contacted him, claiming her husband had assaulted her. Sonko asked men to set the tone in their households by treating women and children with dignity.
The former Nairobi Governor explained that if his own daughter could face harassment, then many other victims might be suffering quietly without help. He warned that physical, emotional, or psychological violence leaves deep scars and weakens families and communities. “Ukikosana na msichana usimpige, ongea naye, reach out to the parents,” Sonko said.
He then called on community leaders, religious figures, and local administrators to guide men toward peaceful conflict resolution. He encouraged them to work with women’s groups and civil society organizations that focus on preventing domestic abuse. According to Sonko, education and awareness can help men understand how violence harms relationships and disrupts the well-being of everyone at home.
Sonko also noted that children who grow up in violent homes often struggle with emotional and behavioural issues. He stressed that preventing domestic violence protects not only direct victims but the wider society. “Let us create homes where love is safe, where voices are gentle, and where differences can be solved without breaking each other,” he said.
He urged couples to communicate more openly and to handle disagreements calmly. Sonko encouraged them to pause before reacting, listen to one another, and avoid behaviour that causes harm.
“My heartfelt plea to young couples is this please, choose peace. Choose dialogue before anger. Choose to pause, breathe, and talk rather than hurt the person you vowed to protect,” he said.
To strengthen the fight against domestic violence, Sonko asked government agencies and non-governmental organizations to expand support for victims and intensify prevention efforts. He reminded men that “Ending gender-based violence is not just a woman’s fight; it is a societal duty that requires the active participation of men.”
