MAKUENI, Kenya – The government has called for intensified grassroots efforts to prevent gender-based violence (GBV) as part of a national strategy to curb the vice and promote gender equality.
Gender Principal Secretary (PS) Anne Wang’ombe emphasized the need for community education on harmful norms and practices during a visit to the Gender-Based Violence Recovery Centre at Makueni County Referral Hospital in Wote town.
Wang’ombe voiced concern over the rising trend of GBV cases, noting their detrimental impact on women and girls.
“Prevention starts with awareness. I urge all leaders, community members, parents, and workers to become champions for gender equality in our homes, schools, and workplaces,” she said. “This will empower women and girls to claim their rightful place in the community.”
The PS praised Makueni County’s proactive approach in establishing a gender policy aimed at fostering inclusivity and equality.
“I appreciate Makueni County for bringing balance in leadership, decision-making, and resource allocation through this policy. It ensures both men and women are empowered to contribute to societal development,” Wang’ombe added.
She further highlighted that GBV is a deep-rooted issue threatening the nation’s social fabric and urged for sustainable resources, skilled personnel, and infrastructure to adequately support survivors.
“The continuous operation of this center depends on secure and reliable funding. I urge national and county governments, alongside development partners, to ensure the facility remains financially stable to offer free and affordable services to survivors,” she stated.
The PS called for collective responsibility within the community to ensure the center’s effectiveness, noting that the government is committed to building capacity for professionals handling complex GBV cases.
Makueni Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili reiterated the county’s commitment to ending GBV, while Nairobi Women’s Hospital CEO Sam Nzioka emphasized the importance of a multi-sectoral approach in addressing the issue.
Nairobi Women’s Hospital supported the establishment of the recovery center, which was also lauded by Makueni County Commissioner Henry Wafula and Gender Executive Peter Mumo.
Gender Principal Secretary (PS) Anne Wang’ombe emphasized the need for community education on harmful norms and practices during a visit to the Gender-Based Violence Recovery Centre at Makueni County Referral Hospital in Wote town.
Wang’ombe voiced concern over the rising trend of GBV cases, noting their detrimental impact on women and girls.
“Prevention starts with awareness. I urge all leaders, community members, parents, and workers to become champions for gender equality in our homes, schools, and workplaces,” she said. “This will empower women and girls to claim their rightful place in the community.”
The PS praised Makueni County’s proactive approach in establishing a gender policy aimed at fostering inclusivity and equality.
“I appreciate Makueni County for bringing balance in leadership, decision-making, and resource allocation through this policy. It ensures both men and women are empowered to contribute to societal development,” Wang’ombe added.
She further highlighted that GBV is a deep-rooted issue threatening the nation’s social fabric and urged for sustainable resources, skilled personnel, and infrastructure to adequately support survivors.
“The continuous operation of this center depends on secure and reliable funding. I urge national and county governments, alongside development partners, to ensure the facility remains financially stable to offer free and affordable services to survivors,” she stated.
The PS called for collective responsibility within the community to ensure the center’s effectiveness, noting that the government is committed to building capacity for professionals handling complex GBV cases.
Makueni Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili reiterated the county’s commitment to ending GBV, while Nairobi Women’s Hospital CEO Sam Nzioka emphasized the importance of a multi-sectoral approach in addressing the issue.
Nairobi Women’s Hospital supported the establishment of the recovery center, which was also lauded by Makueni County Commissioner Henry Wafula and Gender Executive Peter Mumo.
