In a concerted effort to address the pressing issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), we paid a visit to Kisumu County Governor Prof. Anyang Nyong’o together with other gender partners. The discussions centered on formulating a comprehensive response that not only acknowledges the gravity of GBV but also strives to create lasting solutions for our communities.
Advocating for Change: The heart of the conversation revolved around advocating for increased budget allocations, strengthening inclusion in women’s economic empowerment, and addressing mental health concerns. Recognizing the pivotal role of Technical and Vocational Education and Training (TVETs), the roundtable aimed to establish these spaces as catalysts for empowering young girls to assume leadership roles and contribute meaningfully to society.
Holistic Recommendations: The roundtable produced concrete recommendations to enhance our response to GBV. This includes establishing GBV centers within health facilities to provide responsive actions, addressing vulnerabilities of women at risk of sexual exploitation and abuse, creating dedicated spaces for reporting sexual harassment, and actively supporting the augmentation of budgets for mental health programs.
Governors Taking the Lead: One of the remarkable aspects of this initiative is the commitment of governors to lead efforts in ending child defilement and sexual violence. By taking a proactive stance and engaging in collaborative civic education through regular community dialogues, these leaders are demonstrating their dedication to building safer communities.
The collective efforts of leaders, partners, and stakeholders are essential in driving meaningful change. By advocating for increased budgets, holistic support for women’s empowerment, and addressing the multifaceted challenges of GBV, we are laying the foundation for a safer, more resilient society. Together, we can make a lasting impact and create a future where everyone can thrive without fear or violence.
Integral to the success of this roundtable are the invaluable contributions from the Embassy of the Netherlands and UNDP Kenya. Their unwavering support has played a crucial role in elevating the impact of these discussions and turning them into actionable plans. This partnership signifies a shared commitment to creating positive change and fostering a safer, more inclusive future for all.
