Thika West Sub-County in Kiambu County has joined the global campaign for the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence (GBV) at Mama Ngina gardens.
Subsequently, various government agencies and stakeholders in the health sector came together to discuss strategies for the prevention and response to violence affecting men, women and children.
Echoing the 2023 theme, “Towards Beijing +30: United to End Violence Against Women and Girls,” attendees pledged to unite in the fight against violence, recognizing the need to protect all genders.
Addressing participants during the campaign launch, the coordinator Kiandutu Health Centre and Thika Sub-County Sexual and Gender-Based Violence, Dr. Peter Muchunu, highlighted the alarming increase in violence cases linked to drug abuse and unemployment.
He underscored the urgent need to address GBV, emphasizing its detrimental impact on both men and women’s ability to participate fully in leadership, advocacy, and public life.
“Our health facility receives an average of 15 GBV reports each month. However, we believe that this figure only scratches the surface, as many cases go unreported due to fear, shame, stigma, and lack of awareness. The recent surge in femicide and other forms of violence against women and girls is a grave concern that requires immediate attention.” Dr. Muchunu emphasized.
On her part, Dr. Susan Gitau, a Counselling Psychologist at a leading mental health facility, emphasized the importance of providing free medical and psychological support to victims of GBV.
She explained that such support is crucial in helping survivors overcome post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and other mental health challenges often associated with traumatic experiences.
“The scourge of GBV is not gender specific. Men and boys, particularly, are suffering in silence from physical and emotional abuse, including sexual violence. We must prioritize their mental health to prevent a future generation marred by trauma,” she said.
Dr. Gitau identified six key strategies to combat GBV: prevention, accountability, survivor support, policy reform, male engagement, and community leadership.
“Eliminating gender-based violence demands a collective effort. By uniting our voices and actions, we can build a future where all genders can live safely and with dignity, free from the threat of violence,” she said.
Thika West Deputy County Commissioner James Wanyoike highlighted the crucial role of local leadership and the legal system in safeguarding vulnerable individuals.
He emphasized the need for increased vigilance, especially during periods like the festive season, when cases of violence historically tend to rise.
“A staggering 97 women have been brutally murdered in just the last three months. GBV affects women of all ages, from infants to the elderly. We must accelerate the judicial process for GBV cases,” he stated.
Gender Based Violence survivors bravely shared their stories, revealing the devastating consequences of violence on their physical, emotional, and psychological well-being.
They urged for expanded access to psychosocial support, mental health services, and empowerment programs to aid their recovery.
The campaign commemorates the 30th anniversary of the Beijing Declaration and Platform for Action in 2025, reaffirming Kenya’s commitment to gender equality and women’s empowerment.
By Hellen Lunalo
