Gender CS launches 90-day plan to end SGBV in Central

The Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children’s Services has launched a 90-day plan to end sexual and gender-based violence in Central Kenya.

The plan is designed to intensify interventions and strengthen coordination among agencies, with the goal of declaring the region SGBV-free within eleven months.

CS Hanna Cheptumo described as deeply saddening the recent incidents involving violence against children reported in Nyeri, Murang’a and Tharakanithi counties.

In Murang’a, the government continues to monitor investigations after the tragic recovery of the bodies of two children from Kiyama River in Katanga subcounty on May 10.

The deceased are believed to be a boy aged about14 years and a girl aged about nine years.

“Investigation is ongoing to determine the circumstances surrounding this heartbreaking incident,” the statement read.

The Ministry said  Nyumbakumi structures are being strengthened to enhance child protection surveillance, emergency response and case management.

It added that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations is undertaking investigations into all reported cases involving violence against children, and “any person found responsible will face the full force of the law.”

She also highlighted the operationalisation of the toll-free National Child Helpline, saying: “We have a child toll free line which is free in case you are under any challenge you can call that line that is operating 24 hours and the WhatsApp line is 0722 116 116 to facilitate timely reporting, referral services for affected children and families.”

Parents, guardians, and caregivers were urged to closely monitor the movements and whereabouts of children at all times.

The Ministry noted that reforms under the Children’s Act 2022 are being implemented, including the transition from institutional care towards strengthened family and community-based care systems.

“This is to ensure that every child grows in a safe, secure and nurturing environment,” the statement explained.

The ministry appealed to members of the public to cooperate fully with authorities and support ongoing investigations in affected counties.

“We appeal to the members of the public to cooperate fully with authorities, support ongoing investigations in affected counties,” Cheptumo said.