By John Willis Juma
Pambazuko la Wanawake Magharibi, an organization dedicated to women’s rights, hosted a forum at the Good Samaritan Hall in Nyalenda, focusing on seeking justice for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV).
Led by its CEO, Ms. Eveline Khaemba, the organization aims to create a just, dignified, and safe environment for women and girls in Kenya, enabling their active participation in community development. Their core values are integrity, diversity, inclusivity, accountability, and transparency.
The forum centered on effective strategies for combating GBV. Discussions included Response, which involves coordinating with police and hospitals, particularly gender-based violence recovery centers. They also addressed Mitigation, where government departments provide opportunities for survivors who have stabilized.
Key speakers included Mr. Joel Okumu, the Director for Gender National Government, and Ms. Recho Akoth, a Gender Department police officer. They educated survivors on the different types and causes of GBV, as well as the correct channels and procedures for reporting cases to authorities.
The event’s chief guest, Hon. Beatrice Odongo, the Kisumu County Executive Committee Member for Sports, Culture, Gender and Youth Affairs, urged women to speak out and legally report GBV cases to local authorities like chiefs, police, and the children’s office. She highlighted that the County is reviewing its GBV policy to be more inclusive, as the previous one only focused on women and children.
Hon. Odongo also noted that the County is collaborating with partners, including the health department, to establish safe houses in major hospitals throughout the County.
She reminded the attendees that county offices are accessible even at the village level and that no one should suffer in silence.