The government has called for prevention of gender based violence at the grassroots to help curb the vice in the country.
Gender PS Anne Wang'ombe said communities should be educated about gender equality and harmful norms and practices.
She spoke during a tour of the Gender Based Violence Recovery Centre at the Makueni County Referral Hospital in Wote town.
Wang'ombe said GBV cases are taking a worrying trend and impacting negatively on women and girls in the society.
“Prevention starts with awareness and 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 enhance and empower women and girls to claim their rightful place in the community."
The PS praised the county government of Makueni for establishing gender policy that will foster inclusivity and equality.
“I appreciate Makueni county for the proactive approach in establishing gender policy that brings balance in leadership, decision-making and resource allocation. This ensures both men and women are empowered to contribute to societal development,” she said.
Wang’ombe said GBV is a deep-rooted issue that threatens the social fabric of the nation.
She said it is imperative to provide sustainable resources, staff and infrastructure needed to serve survivors effectively.
Wang’ombe urged the community to own the recovery centre and foster a sense of collective responsibility to make it effective.
“The continuous operation of this centre will depend on secure and reliable funding. I urge the national and county government development partners to ensure the facility remains financially stable, allowing provision of free and affordable services to survivors ,” she said.
“The government will ensure necessary capacity-building programmes are in place and professionals are equipped with the necessary skills and knowledge to handle complexities of GBV cases."
Makueni Deputy Governor Lucy Mulili said that the county government is committed to end GBV.
Nairobi Women's Hospital CEO Sam Nzioka said there is need for a multi-sectoral approach to end GBV.
Nairobi Women's Hospital supported the establishment of the centre.
Makueni county commissioner Henry Wafula, Gender executive Peter Mumo also attended the event.
