Kilifi Up in Arms Against Gender Based Violence
By Robby Ngoba
Email, thecoastnewspaper@gmail.com
Kilifi County is making a significant impact in the fight against gender-based violence with the launch of accelerate national shelter program.
The program intends to provide a safe haven and essential support services for women or girls who have experienced GBV.
Kilifi, like other regions in the country, is facing alarming rates of GBV, with statistics indicating that 45% of women aged 15- 49 have suffered from physical or sexual violence.
Factors contributing to that are cultural norms and poverty, apart from lacking of available shelter services to cater for victims in the county.
Speaking during the launch of the program at Karisa Maitha ground in Kilifi town, the Kilifi deputy governor Flora Chibule said the county was ready to combat GBV.
“Kilifi recognizes the severe impact of gender-based violence on our community, and we are taking decisive steps to change this reality. This shelter is not merely a response, it represents a commitment to safety healing. It also serves as a beacon of hope, dignity and protection. Together with our partners we will tirelessly work to create a safer.”
She anticipates that the shelter will assist more than 500 women and girls annually across the region.
The shelter is part of a broader national initiative to establish 13 similar facilities across Kenya, each offering safe housing, medical care, counselling, legal support and skills training to empower survivors to help them rebuilt their lives.
The initiative is spearheaded by the Gender Violence Recovery Center (GVRC) in partnership with key stakeholders including the Kilifi County government, the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya, Population Service Kenya (PSK), Population Services International (PSI) and Nairobi Women’s Hospital.
Henrik Larsen, Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Denmark, emphasized the importance of collaboration in fostering lasting solution and change.
“This shelter is not just like a refuge, it’s a significant step towards advancing gender equality and human rights in Kenya. By joining forces, we can help break the cycle of violence and empower the survivors in reclaiming their lives,” said Larsen.
Population Services Kenya chief executive officer, Margrate Ngenga said the program’s critical role was addressing the gaps in GBV management.
“We are actively re-establishing shelters across various counties, a commitment made during a Human Rights Cafe,” she said.
According to her the facilities will not only offer safety and support to survivors, but will also ensure access to care and justice, impacting 12% of the GBV burden in Kenya.
She urged all stakeholders to support the initiative whether through advocacy, donations or volunteering, adding that every contribution counts.
