Survivors of sexual gender based violence (SGBV) will now be able to access specialized medical care following the establishment of a new clinic at the Kenyatta University Teaching Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH).
The recovery centre known as the Tumaini Clinic, will be providing confidential and comprehensive care and support to survivors of sexual and gender violence, more so women.
Speaking recently during the launch of the clinic, the hospital’s Chief Executive Officer, Dr Zeinab Gura, said the facility will offer medical, psychological and legal support services to survivors, while strengthening the institution’s response to gender-based violence in the community.
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In a speech read on her behalf by the Director, Training and Research at the facility, Dr Caroline Ngugi, the CEO noted that gender-based violence remains a serious public health and human rights concern, with many victims suffering in silence due to stigma and fear.
“Data shows that nearly 40 per cent of couples have experienced some form of gender-based violence from their partners. The Tumaini Clinic will provide post-exposure prophylaxis, emergency medical treatment, psychosocial support, legal linkages and follow-up care to ensure survivors begin the journey toward healing and recovery,” she said.
Dr Gura added that the hospital will also strengthen staff capacity through specialized training to ensure survivors receive trauma-informed and compassionate care.
According to the hospital management, the facility will also address the psychological toll that violence leaves on survivors, including trauma, loss of trust and feelings of insecurity.
A senior nurse and representative of the clinic management, Purity Kibathi, said many survivors experience deep psychological scars and require long-term mental health support.
” Gender-based violence remains a common health and human rights issue in society. Survivors often suffer in silence because of stigma, but this clinic will provide a safe space where they can access support and begin rebuilding their lives,” she said.
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Security officials also called on the public to report cases of abuse and stop protecting perpetrators.
Yusuf Yaya, a senior police officer who is also the Gender-Based Violence coordinator at Kahawa West Police Station, said poverty and social pressures are among the key drivers of violence.
“Many cases still go unreported because victims fear stigma or retaliation. People should report all cases and avoid shielding perpetrators so that justice can be served and victims protected,” he said.
He added, “Let us support the victims, rather than victimize them. There’s need to strengthen co-operation between the police and the community.”
Salome Ndolo, a social health worker at Kenyatta National Hospital, said surveys show that at least one in three women experiences physical violence in their lifetime, underscoring the need for stronger prevention and survivor support systems.
By John Kamau
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