The government has launched a comprehensive reform agenda targeting the alarming rise in gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide cases reported across Kenya in recent months.
Speaking during a Senate plenary session on Wednesday, Gender Cabinet Secretary Hannah Cheptumo outlined a range of systemic reforms designed to address the deeply rooted causes of GBV and ensure justice for survivors. These reforms span legal, judicial, and institutional frameworks.
Between August and October 2023, a staggering 97 women were murdered in GBV-linked incidents, a statistic that underscores the urgency of the government’s response. Overall, 150 women were killed in femicide cases last year, according to government spokesperson Isaac Mwaura.
“These efforts aim to address systemic challenges and ensure justice for survivors,” said Cheptumo. “We are implementing significant reforms to eliminate gender-based violence and create a safer Kenya for all.”
Key Measures in the Anti-GBV Strategy
Among the initiatives is the establishment of 11 specialised GBV courts in various parts of the country, including Mombasa, Siaya, Meru, Nakuru, Machakos, Kiambu, Kisii, Kitale, Kibera, and Makadara. These courts are aimed at expediting justice and improving the prosecution of GBV cases.
To further streamline GBV response efforts, the ministry is developing a Gender Information Management System (GIMS) in collaboration with the National Gender and Equality Commission. The system will act as a centralized database for gender-related data, enabling more effective monitoring, policy-making, and coordination at both the national and county levels.
“GIMS is a critical tool for advancing gender equality and tackling GBV and related issues in Kenya,” Cheptumo noted.
The system will also track Kenya’s progress in fulfilling domestic and international obligations, including the Constitution, Vision 2030, and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Survivor-Centered Interventions
The government has also rolled out a nationwide network of 97 safe shelters across 21 counties. These facilities offer immediate refuge, psychological support, vocational training, financial aid, and reintegration assistance for GBV survivors.
Additionally, one-stop recovery centres have been established in all Level 5 hospitals across Kenya’s 47 counties, ensuring survivors receive comprehensive medical, legal, and psychosocial support under one roof. Guidelines have been developed for their operation, and the ministry is inviting private sector partnerships to enhance the initiative.
Cheptumo further revealed that the government is pushing for amendments to the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act to formally recognise and regulate GBV shelters and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for handling cases.
“The manual outlines proper procedures for reporting, meticulous evidence recording, and effective prosecution, aiming to ensure victims receive prompt and effective justice,” she said.
Multi-Agency and Legislative Approach
A Presidential Working Group on Femicide has also been formed to coordinate national responses and provide strategic direction. Cheptumo emphasized that GBV is fuelled by a complex mix of social, cultural, economic, and legal factors, including patriarchal norms, harmful traditions, weak enforcement, and poverty.
“Addressing GBV requires a coordinated, multi-agency response. My ministry should be considered for increased funding to establish model protection centres and operationalise existing ones,” she urged.
The sweeping reforms come as Kenya grapples with a national crisis of violence against women and girls. The government’s aggressive intervention is seen as a critical step toward fulfilling its commitment to protect human rights and promote gender equality.
