Nyeri County Member of County Assembly (MCA) Agnes Wachira has called on the County and National Governments to prioritise establishing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) desks in local health facilities.
According to the MCA, such desks would serve as one-stop centres offering immediate and comprehensive support to survivors of gender-based violence.
Wachira made the remarks during a courtesy call at the office of Nyeri Deputy Governor, H.E. David Kinaniri, where she met with representatives from the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC).
“Survivors of GBV must have access to timely assistance in spaces that are both accessible and secure,” she said. “Establishing GBV desks within hospitals and clinics would ensure survivors receive medical care, psychosocial support, and legal guidance under one roof.”
The visiting NGEC delegation was led by the Commission’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Purity Ngina, PhD, MBS. Members of the Technical Working Group on GBV and Femicide, chaired by Anthony Nzuki, accompanied the delegation.
The team is currently engaging with counties across the country to strengthen coordinated efforts in combating GBV and promoting gender equality.
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Dr Ngina welcomed Wachira’s proposal and emphasised the Commission’s commitment to collaborating with both levels of government to enhance GBV prevention and response mechanisms.
“Our goal is to create a national framework that empowers survivors, prevents recurrence, and ensures justice,” she stated.
The meeting underscored local leaders’ critical role in advocating for survivor-centred services and community education on gender issues. Deputy Governor Kinaniri expressed his administration’s openness to working closely with stakeholders to ensure a safer, more inclusive Nyeri County.
The proposed GBV desks are expected to streamline reporting processes, improve data collection, and more efficiently connect survivors with vital services.
As cases of GBV continue to rise across the country, leaders and organisations alike are urged to act swiftly and decisively.
By Rogers Wagura
