Kenyan Girls Box To Protect Themselves from Rape

As part of the BBC’s #100Women series, 14-year-old Emily Kasyoka (pictured right, below), who boxes to protect herself from sexual violence, is profiled.

SEE ALSO: 3 Students Describe Heroic Escape From Boko Haram 

Kasyoka lives and trains in Nairobi with her competitor and “good friend” Michelle. Of her decision to box, Kasyoka says, “I train so I can help fellow girls in my community. I love to defend myself, because in our area, there are many challenges we face, like girls are being raped, especially young girls are being abused in ways they don’t like.

“While others are being killed, others are attacked, and others are being attacked by robbers.”

On the video, one can clearly see that Kasyoka has a natural talent for the rigorous sport as she moves through different positions and punches with admirable speed, power, and precision.

But how long does she practice?

Six hours a day.

Kasyoka’s days begin at six in the morning and by eight she is at the boxing gym. She adds, “I don’t get tired because it [boxing] is something that I like, something I feel good that I’m doing, and is enjoyable. It is exercise, and it has helped me to be fit.”

Watch Kasyoka and her peers train here:

 

SEE ALSO: Women Pray for Peace To Reign in Cameroon in Face of Boko Haram Attacks