Taita Taveta County has ramped up efforts to combat the alarming rise in Gender-Based Violence (GBV), as the county recorded 640 cases in 2024, a sharp increase from just 13 in 2020. Governor Andrew Mwadime’s administration has prioritized survivor protection by partnering with civil society organizations, legal actors, and community-based groups to enforce justice, provide support, and raise awareness. Widows, especially, face layers of injustice, violence, poverty, and denial of inheritance. It’s time to stop talking and start acting. We are allocating dedicated funds to fight GBV and support survivors, said Governor Mwadime.
The county is rolling out survivor-centered interventions and preventive measures, including the establishment of safe houses in every sub-county. Deputy Governor Christine Kilalo highlighted the need to change societal mindsets, stressing that families must stop normalizing abuse. The County Executive Committee Member for Youth, Gender, and Social Services, Shedrack Mutungi, confirmed that the GBV Policy is finalized, while a Gender-Based Violence Bill is underway in collaboration with partners like ActionAid Kenya. Grassroots engagement is also a focus, with CECM for Trade, Gertrude Shuwe, urging households to model gender equality as a foundation for change.
The issue was further addressed at the Taita Taveta Gender Conference held at Dan Mwanzo Hall in Voi, themed Breaking the Silence: Confronting GBV, Ending Femicide and Empowering Women for a Just Society. The event convened survivors, legal experts, county officials, and grassroots champions for candid discussions on systemic barriers and solutions. With multi-sectoral support from ActionAid Kenya, Kenya Red Cross, Sauti ya Wanawake, Hand in Hand, and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund, the conference concluded with a commitment to protect survivors, speak out, and demand justice. County leaders affirmed that silence is no longer an option in addressing GBV in Taita Taveta.