ELGEYO MARAKWET COUNTY: A new recovery center dedicated to supporting survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) has been established at the Iten County Referral Hospital. The facility aims to provide comprehensive services, including treatment and psychosocial support, for those affected by GBV.

According to Kenya News Agency, the center, sponsored by the Accelerate organization, was officially launched with the intention of serving as a one-stop resource for GBV survivors. Elizabeth Atwani from Accelerate highlighted that the center would also offer guidance on accessing justice for those impacted by such violence.

During the launch event, Philemon Kittony, the county’s GBV focal person at the hospital, shared that the hospital recorded 100 GBV cases in the past three months, with 34 involving sexual violence. Kittony noted that sexual gender-based violence was the most prevalent form, followed by intimate partner violence, and emphasized the importance of the new center in addressing the hospital’s previou
s challenges in providing temporary shelter to survivors post-treatment.

Kittony also mentioned that efforts by the government and partners to combat Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) have been effective, as fewer cases have been reported this year. However, Lorna Kipsang, Chief Officer at the governor’s office, voiced concerns about the underreporting of GBV cases in the county. She urged residents to report such incidents to ensure survivors receive necessary assistance.

Kipsang also appealed for the cessation of FGM practices, labeling them as outdated and harmful. She emphasized the importance of education for girls, advocating for uninterrupted learning as a priority over traditional practices like FGM.