Makueni County Government plans to embark on the construction of six safe houses designated for victims of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the upcoming 2024–2025 fiscal year.
Jacob Kyungu, an Economist with the County Department of Finance, Socio economics, and Planning, disclosed this development during a sensitization workshop held in Wote town.
The safe houses are set to be strategically located across Kilome, Mbooni, Makueni, Kibwezi West, Kibwezi, and Kaiti Sub-counties.
This expansion aims to significantly enhance support and protection services available to survivors of GBV throughout the county.
Kyungu emphasized that the initiative aims to replace the current single safe house with a network of facilities, ensuring GBV survivors no longer endure nights in less supportive environments like police stations.
Douglas Mukanda, the County Director of Gender, underscored the prevalence of GBV cases in the region and stressed the importance of concerted efforts from various stakeholders including civil society, non-governmental organizations, and government agencies.
He emphasized the need for collaborative actions to combat and reduce GBV incidents, advocating for intensified sensitization and educational programs to foster behavioral and attitudinal changes within the community.
The workshop, organized by Transparency International and led by the Project Officer of the Public Finance Programme, spanned two days.
The first day focused on budgetary issues, while the second day was dedicated to addressing GBV concerns.
Mukanda highlighted the pivotal role of such workshops in enhancing understanding and cooperation among stakeholders towards achieving meaningful progress in tackling GBV.
The new safe houses are envisioned not only as shelters but also as hubs for comprehensive support services tailored to meet the specific needs of GBV survivors.
By expanding the network of safe houses, the County Government aims to provide a safer and more conducive environment for individuals seeking refuge and support in the aftermath of GBV incidents.
Kyungu urged GBV survivors to reach out to government authorities for assistance, emphasizing the county’s commitment to providing robust support systems to safeguard the rights and well-being of all residents.
The initiative marks a proactive step towards addressing the pressing issue of GBV in Makueni County, underscoring the government’s commitment to ensuring the safety and dignity of all its citizens.
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