Kisii County Government And Stakeholders Unite To Tackle Gender-Based Violence

By Elizabeth Angira

Kisii County Government, in collaboration with key stakeholders, is spearheading efforts to combat gender-based violence (GBV) through the development of sustainable mitigation measures aimed at eliminating the vice.

During a high-level consultative forum held in Kisii town, county officials, law enforcement agencies, civil society organizations, members of the county assembly and community leaders deliberated on strategies to address the rising cases of GBV in the region.

The discussions focused on strengthening legal frameworks, enhancing survivor support systems, and raising awareness to prevent violence against women, girls, and other vulnerable groups.

Speaking at the event, Kisii County Executive Member of Health Ronald Nyakweba emphasized the county’s commitment to ensuring that all residents, especially women and children, live free from violence and discrimination.

Mr Nyakweba says urged law enforcement agencies to expedite justice for survivors and provide adequate training to officers handling GBV cases.

The Kisii County Government, in partnership with stakeholders, is expected to roll out a comprehensive action plan in the coming months to ensure these initiatives are fully implemented.

Amnesty International Kisii Branch Chair, Henry Omweri, urged both the county and national governments to allocate more resources toward the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), emphasizing that ending the vice requires a collective effort from all sectors of society.

Omweri expressed concerns over the increasing cases of GBV in the region.

He noted that inadequate funding, weak enforcement of laws and cultural norms continue to hinder efforts to protect survivors and bring perpetrators to justice.

Stella Achoki, the Director for CECOME a community-based organization working to end sexual and gender-based violence and promote young women’s leadership in the community are working with the county government in Kisii, to put in place policies that address systemic issues and drivers of sexual violence and foster a culture that values and supports girls’ education

Call for Increased Government Support

Kisii nominated member of the county assembly Lilian Gor urged the county and national governments to prioritize funding for GBV response programs, including survivor support services, legal aid, and awareness campaigns.

“We cannot continue addressing gender-based violence without proper funding. Survivors need medical care, psychological support, and legal representation, yet resources remain scarce. We are urging the government to allocate more funds to support these initiatives,” she said.

Nominated member of the county assembly Michael Moseti acknowledged the challenges in tackling GBV and assured stakeholders that the county government is committed to strengthening response mechanisms.

“The county is working on policies to enhance GBV prevention and response services. However, we need collaborative efforts from the national government, development partners, and community members to make meaningful progress,” he said.

Nominated member of the county assembly Damaris Nyanchoka echoed their sentiments and said that Kisii County is going to be the first county to champion gender based violence.

Key Resolutions from Stakeholders

During the discussions, stakeholders outlined several resolutions aimed at addressing GBV effectively, increased budgetary allocation for GBV programs at both county and national levels and strengthening legal frameworks to ensure swift prosecution of perpetrators.

They also cited that establishing safe shelters for survivors to seek refuge and receive support and training law enforcement officers to handle GBV cases sensitively and effectively.

In addition, community education programs to challenge harmful cultural norms that perpetuate violence.

A Collective Responsibility

Religious leaders and community elders at the forum committed to breaking the silence on GBV by using their platforms to advocate for respect, equality, and justice.

They emphasized that societal change starts with community members actively condemning gender-based violence.

Stakeholders also called on the media to play a critical role in raising awareness and holding authorities accountable in the fight against GBV.