The Methodist Church has raised concern on increased cases of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Meru County and the country at large.
According to Methodist Connectional Women Fellowship leaders, GBV remains underreported and largely unaddressed by relevant government agencies.
Led by Methodist Church in Kenya (MCK), Connectional Women Fellowship Patron, Pauline Ntombura, they urged the government to give the issue the attention it deserves.
“We note that we are not deficient in laws governing and spelling out punishment for GBV-related offences. All we need is to create an environment for victims to stand up, report and seek assistance without fear,” she stated.
Ms. Ntombura said the Church was similarly concerned about the rising cases of sexual offences perpetrated by close relatives, guardians and other care givers.
The Church, she said, had come up with programs aimed at raising champions to fight the social vices.
“The Church is keen on creating an enabling environment for gender equality. As church members, we must become agents of change by helping end societal evils such as drug abuse and gender-based violence. We commit to break the cycle of violence perpetrated against women and girls,” Ms Ntombura said.
She further called for increased opportunities for confidential reporting on GBV, support for innovative ways of reporting the same and enhanced safety for women and girls.
The Patron also advocated for enforcement of regulations that would guarantee a safe working environment for women in the country.
By Muguongo Judy
