Kilifi County's leadership is urging families to engage in open conversations to settle disputes over inheritance and prevent violence. Deputy Governor Flora Chibule warned that unresolved inheritance fights and witchcraft accusations are fueling violence against elders. She appealed to families and community leaders to create forums for younger and older members to discuss their differences. This initiative aims to address the rising tensions between generations in Kilifi County.
Strained relations between generations have led some youths to turn against their elderly parents, especially when disputes arise over the division of family property. Deputy Governor Flora Chibule noted that in some cases, youths have resorted to violence after parents refused to allocate inheritance. Witchcraft allegations are sometimes used to justify attacks on older relatives. The county is seeking to address these issues through dialogue and community engagement.
The county is partnering with Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya to broaden mental-health services across its seven sub-counties. This partnership aims to address emotional distress that can exacerbate family conflicts. Kilifi County Mental Health Officer Dr. Nuru Kibivige reported 58 suicide cases in the past year, with men comprising a large share. This underscores the need for stronger mental-health support in the county.
Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya programme co-ordinator Job Monyonjo said the organisation is working with the county health department to set up mental-health clinics in all seven sub-counties. The NGO has also trained community health workers, chiefs, and Nyumba Kumi officials to raise mental-health awareness and identify individuals who may need assistance. This initiative aims to bring mental-health discussions into households.
Local leaders hope that involving community figures will help address family disputes and emotional strain that often go unnoticed. By engaging community leaders and health workers, the county aims to identify and support individuals at risk of mental health issues. This approach also seeks to promote a culture of openness and dialogue in addressing family conflicts.
Deputy Governor Flora Chibule emphasized that bridging the generational divide through dialogue is essential to prevent disagreements from escalating into deadly confrontations. She urged families to discuss property disputes openly and honestly. This approach can help prevent violence and promote peaceful resolution of family conflicts.
The inter-generational dialogue initiative is a key step towards addressing the root causes of family violence in Kilifi County. By engaging younger and older relatives in open conversations, the county aims to promote understanding and empathy. This can help prevent violence and promote peaceful coexistence among family members.
Key points
- Kilifi County officials are urging families to engage in open dialogue to settle disputes over inheritance and prevent violence.
- The county is partnering with Basic Needs Basic Rights Kenya to broaden mental-health services across its seven sub-counties.
- Deputy Governor Flora Chibule emphasized that bridging the generational divide through dialogue is essential to prevent disagreements from escalating into deadly confrontations.
