Nanyuki: State and non-state actors in the gender sector have called for concerted effort in addressing alarming cases of Sexual Gender Based Violence (SGBV) in the country. Deputy Inspector General Administrative Police Service Gilbert Masengeli, speaking during a visit to Nanyuki policare, a one-stop shop for preventing SGBV incidents in Laikipia County, said 13 per cent of women and 34 per cent had experienced sexual violence and physical violence, respectively, since the age of 15 years.
According to Kenya News Agency, Masengeli highlighted the troubling statistics, stating, “It’s alarming that 578 femicide cases have been reported last year, an increase of 8 per cent.” He assured that the National Police Service is committed to addressing gender-based violence and emphasized the intent to establish a gender desk in all 47 counties to tackle gender issues effectively. Additionally, he announced plans to transform police stations to enhance efficiency in addressing SGBV in a professional and seamless manner.
Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu pointed out the vulnerability of women to SGBV due to limited resources available in the county to support gender programmes. The Nanyuki policare, established in 2024, has handled 500 cases involving domestic violence, sexual assault, and emotional abuse. Out of these cases, 200 have been resolved, 50 are currently underway, and 50 other victims are receiving legal aid and counseling.
REINVENT Programme Chief of Party, Jaki Mbogo, revealed the high cost of treating SGBV cases, underscoring the need for collaborations. “The cost of treating one case of SGBV, according to the Gender and Equality Commission, is about Sh44,000 from the point of entry until they can access justice. As a result, most people opt not to pursue it since it’s expensive,” she explained. The REINVENT Programme, a 5-year initiative, aims to enhance Kenyan capacity to address inter-communal conflict, weak community-police relations, violence against women and girls, violent extremism, and election-related violence.
Mbogo further added that the Policare concept is designed to lower the cost of accessing justice for SGBV victims in a dignified manner, as some victims shy away from reporting due to fear of stigmatization. The British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, reiterated the UK Government’s commitment to supporting SGBV victims in the country. He praised the National Police Service for their dedication to protecting women, children, and other vulnerable community members in Kenya, pledging his government’s support in the gender sector.
The Nanyuki policare, a unique facility in the country, is staffed with judicial officials, clinicians, counselors, and police, providing a comprehensive support system for SGBV victims under one roof. This state-of-the-art facility was launched in 2022, constructed at a cost of Sh9 million with support from the National Police Service, REINVENT Kenya, the UK government, and other partners.
