Violence thrives when the interests of a few prevail over the interests of the many. 

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Violence against children is amongst the most prevalent and costly forms of abuse. Across East Africa children are exposed to chronic levels of violence, and the circle of care around them is precarious. 

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64% of children and youth report experiencing physical violence; 22% report experiencing sexual violence; and 26% report experiencing emotional violence. 

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Each victim carries a burden that negatively affects well-being, functioning and productivity over their lifetime. In East Africa, violence and maltreatment of children costs over $20 billion a year, inhibiting economic and social progress, and undermining the effectiveness of other social investments in education, poverty alleviation and health. 

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Despite the devastating human and financial impact of violence, chronic under-investment in preventing and responding to it persists.