Narok: Narok County has initiated the 16 Days of GBV Activism campaign, focusing on eliminating Gender-Based Violence (GBV) in the Trans Mara West Sub-County. This campaign aims to unite various stakeholders and local residents to take decisive action against GBV.
According to Kenya News Agency, Narok Principal Magistrate Phyllis Shinyanda, speaking at the event held at DEB Primary School, called for a collective commitment from stakeholders and the Kenyan public in the fight against GBV. She underscored the judiciary’s role in enforcing justice and ensuring accountability in addressing GBV cases. Shinyanda identified Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), early marriages resulting from defilement, and teenage pregnancies as the most prevalent forms of GBV in Narok County. She announced plans to establish a specialized GBV court to expedite case handling and provide quicker justice for victims.
Techlah Mungushi of Maendeleo ya Wanawake Trans Mara attributed the rise in GBV cases to relationship issues and urged
partners to foster understanding and mutual respect. She emphasized that relationship endings should be peaceful, without resorting to violence. Mungushi advised young university students to focus on their studies and avoid relationships that might lead to harmful consequences. As an advocate against FGM, she urged the community to abandon outdated practices and adopt progressive values to build the nation. Mungushi also stressed the importance of empowering both girls and boys, ensuring that the boy child is not neglected in these efforts.
William Mbanyamlenge, a Program Officer with Crew Narok, highlighted the prevalence of GBV in pastoral communities and the need for increased awareness. He pointed out the unacceptable practice of older men marrying young girls and stressed the importance of addressing this issue. Trans Mara West Sub-County Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Chuck Masua encouraged the community to abandon harmful cultural practices and focus on education. He urged parents to engage their ch
ildren in positive educational activities during the long holiday to prevent involvement in harmful practices. The DCC also warned of legal consequences for those found engaging in GBVs against children.
