Innovative Solutions to Gender-Based Violence in Kisii County: A Localized Policy Framework for Prevention and Survivor Support

Roselyne Nyakona David, MPH, BsCM, DCM GBV

Focal Person
Office of the County Director of Health
Department of Health, Kisii County Government

Peter Gutwa Oino

School of Arts and Social Sciences
Department of Sociology, Gender and Development Studies, Kisii University
Email: oinogutwae@gmail.com

Executive Summary: Kisii County grapples with an entrenched issue of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), spanning domestic violence, sexual assault, and harmful cultural practices, eroding social cohesion and impeding progress. Despite existing legal frameworks like the Constitution of 2010 and national statutes addressing GBV, challenges persist in reporting and prosecuting offenders, leaving victims without adequate recourse. Regional commitments to combat GBV, such as Kenya’s adherence to international protocols, underscore the collective determination to eliminate such violations, but gaps in execution persist. Drawing from extensive research and stakeholder engagements, this policy brief highlights Kisii County’s dire GBV landscape. Alarming statistics from the National Crime Research Centre expose high rates of child sexual exploitation, signaling an urgent need for robust interventions. Identified challenges include legislative gaps, insufficient budget allocation, and inadequate support structures for GBV survivors. The proposed recommendations aim to address these gaps by advocating for collaborative legislation development, enhanced funding for GBV activities, and the creation of comprehensive safe spaces. These strategic measures aspire to fortify Kisii County’s response to GBV, fostering resilience and support for survivors while advancing a more effective approach to combatting this pervasive issue.