The government has expressed alarm over the increasing cases of gender-based violence and femicide in Western Kenya. According to the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action, a total of 3,191 cases were reported in the region between January and September this year. This has prompted the launch of a three-month Rapid Results Initiative aimed at accelerating the prevention, investigation, and prosecution of GBV cases.
The initiative brings together security agencies, the Judiciary, religious leaders, educators, health workers, county governments, community leaders, and civil society organizations to tackle GBV and improve access to justice for survivors. Principal Secretary for Gender and Affirmative Action Anne Wang'ombe stated that Western region is among the hotspots for GBV and femicide. The 3,191 cases reported include rape, defilement, femicide, and other forms of gender-based violence.
Wang'ombe said the initiative follows recommendations by a presidential technical working group established to examine GBV and femicide cases across the country. The government has identified the need for stakeholders to work together at county and community levels to address the causes of violence and ensure perpetrators face justice. The PS urged stakeholders to play their respective roles more effectively and in a coordinated manner.
The government has set targets and timelines for the initiative, with the Judiciary expected to fast-track GBV cases and avoid unnecessary adjournments. The police are also expected to ensure suspects are arrested and investigations completed promptly. Wang'ombe noted that GBV is not limited to physical violence, but also includes psychological, economic, and technology-facilitated violence.
Women, girls, boys, persons with disabilities, and some men remain vulnerable to different forms of violence. Wang'ombe said religious leaders have agreed to use their platforms to preach peace, address GBV, and initiate programs aimed at strengthening families and relationships. Learning institutions are also expected to educate students on GBV, including prevention and mechanisms for reporting cases.
Western Regional Commissioner Allan Macharia supported the initiative, stating that a coordinated approach involving government agencies and other stakeholders is necessary to confront GBV and femicide. Macharia disclosed that police stations across Western have established gender desks, while counties have GBV centers and protection units to support survivors.
The initiative has been welcomed by county leaders, with Kakamega County Executive Committee Member for Social Services, Sports, Youth, Gender, and Culture Jackline Masicha stating that it will help translate existing policies and recommendations into measurable action. The county government has pledged to work with stakeholders to implement the initiative and reduce GBV cases in the region.
Key points
- The Kenyan government has launched a three-month Rapid Results Initiative to tackle rising gender-based violence cases in Western region.
- A total of 3,191 GBV cases were reported in Western Kenya between January and September this year.
- The initiative brings together security agencies, the Judiciary, and civil society organizations to improve access to justice for survivors.
