Murang'a: The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has called on county governments to establish and operationalize safe houses for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV). NGEC Vice Chairperson Thomas Koyier emphasized the importance of these facilities during a recommitment ceremony of the Equality and Inclusion Technical Working Group (EITWG) in Murang'a, highlighting their role in protecting victims and supporting recovery.
According to Kenya News Agency, Koyier stressed that survivors of GBV require immediate safety, shelter, and psychosocial support, which extends beyond legal compensation. He pointed out that survivors often face the dilemma of returning to unsafe environments, further endangering their well-being. Koyier stated, "Safe houses are not a luxury. They are an essential service that can mean the difference between life and death."
The NGEC official explained that safe houses provide secure spaces for survivors to receive medical care, counseling, and legal support, free from intimidation and victim-blaming. However, most counties in Kenya currently lack functional safe houses, forcing survivors to rely on friends, relatives, or community leaders, a situation that compromises their safety and prolongs trauma.
Koyier warned that this gap undermines efforts to combat GBV, despite strong national policies and laws. He urged county governments to allocate specific budget lines for GBV response and partner with civil societies and faith-based organizations to establish and manage safe houses. He also advocated for training staff to ensure survivors receive professional care, confidentiality, and dignity.
The forum in Murang'a brought together various stakeholders, commending the county for its recommitment to equality and inclusion. However, NGEC challenged Murang'a and other counties to support their pledges with practical actions. Koyier cited recent GBV incidents and statistics showing high rates of violence or abuse among female athletes as evidence of the urgent need for safe spaces.
NGEC pledged to work with Parliament and the National Treasury to support counties in resourcing safe house programs and monitor commitments to ensure equality and GBV prevention are embedded in governance structures. Koyier concluded by urging counties to protect survivors, stating, "Let this recommitment in Murang'a be remembered not just for the signatures, but for the day we turned words into safe shelters for survivors."
Murang'a County Executive Member for Sports, Gender, and Culture Manoah Gachucha acknowledged the county's high GBV cases and encouraged victims to report incidents to authorities. He noted that Murang'a offers free medical care for GBV victims and is working with NGEC to provide further assistance and work towards a GBV-free society.