Kilifi County has officially launched the Anti-Gender-Based Violence Policy (2024-2028), a comprehensive framework designed to address and eliminate gender-based violence (GBV).
The policy focuses on prevention strategies, survivor support systems, accountability mechanisms, and multisectoral collaboration. The policy emphasises creating safe, inclusive spaces for all.
Speaking during the launch at Tezo Grounds, Kilifi Deputy Governor Florence Chibule expressed concern over the alarming rise in GBV cases, particularly femicide, incest, and sodomy.
She noted that recent reports indicate the tragic loss of over five young women’s lives in horrific incidents, with Ganze and Magarini Sub-Counties seeing a rise in cases of incest and sodomy.
“This is a disturbing trend that all stakeholders must work together to address,” she said, urging the community to strongly condemn such acts while the county intensifies efforts to combat GBV.
The county has also established a rescue centre to provide a safe haven for survivors, offering them a space to heal and rebuild their lives
Kenneth Miriti, Kilifi County Health Department’s Gender-Based Violence Coordinator, noted that while teenage pregnancy rates in the county have declined significantly from 33% to 14% over the last three years, intimate partner violence has sharply increased at the household level.
“Femicide cases are particularly worrying, and we are currently conducting a survey to determine the exact numbers reported this year,” said Miriti.
He added that increased awareness by stakeholders has been instrumental in encouraging communities to report GBV cases.
“It’s not that cases are necessarily increasing, but more people are now aware and willing to report them. Currently, about 25 health facilities in the county are providing comprehensive GBV reporting systems that ensure accurate data collection,” he explained.
Beatrice Zige, from the National Gender and Equality Commission, termed the launch of the Anti-GBV Policy a significant milestone, coinciding with the start of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.
She called on the county government to allocate more resources to the gender docket and prioritize economic empowerment programs for survivors.
Kauthar Alwy, Kilifi County Coordinator for the Kenya Red Cross, highlighted the impact of disasters like floods and drought on GBV cases.
She noted that displacement into IDP camps and food insecurity have exacerbated GBV cases in Kilifi.
Alwy also outlined how the Kenya Red Cross, in partnership with Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, has been supporting GBV awareness projects in Magarini Sub-County by strengthening healthcare, community awareness, and legal support systems.
The launch of the policy marks a crucial step in Kilifi County’s fight against GBV.
Stakeholders underscored the importance of community involvement and awareness in reducing GBV cases, urging residents to take proactive steps in supporting survivors and reporting cases.
