Murang’a: Concern has been raised over the increasing cases of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) and Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in Murang’a County with government officials and stakeholders calling for urgent action to curb the vices.
According to Kenya News Agency, County Commissioner Hassan Ali Bule, during a stakeholders’ consultative meeting in Murang’a town, highlighted findings from the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) indicating that the county’s FGM prevalence rate stands at 17.5 percent. This figure is notably high compared to other counties in the Central region, prompting stakeholders to express concern.
Bule emphasized the necessity for community collaboration to address these issues. He announced that a Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) has been launched, running for 100 days to tackle the rising cases. A multi-sectoral team has been formed to conduct sensitization forums across the county, educating residents on the dangers and effects of GBV and FGM.
Bule also pointed out that some cultural practices may contribute to the persistence of FGM in the county. Security agencies, alongside other stakeholders, plan to intensify community engagement forums to develop effective measures against these practices. To enhance security, Bule proposed reviving the Nyumba Kumi initiative and strengthening community policing to help identify and report cases of abuse.
Additionally, senior female security officers will start mentorship programs targeting schoolgirls vulnerable to defilement and abuse. Bule also urged day school managements to release learners early to avoid risks associated with late hours.
Murang’a County Gender Officer, Peter Muhia, described the GBV level in the county as alarming, noting that men are increasingly becoming victims alongside women. The Rapid Results Initiative, which started on May 21, aims to identify the causes behind GBV and FGM and develop long-term strategies to address them. Muhia urged stakeholders, especially the church, to actively discourage retrogressive cultural practices fueling FGM.
