As the world observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), leaders from Migori County are raising the alarm over the escalating cases of GBV in the region.
With a growing number of incidents reported, local leaders are calling on the government and key stakeholders to tighten the noose on perpetrators and intensify efforts to eliminate the vice by 2030.
Former Migori gubernatorial aspirant Byron Oginga led the charge, highlighting the urgent need for a comprehensive strategy to address GBV, particularly in light of the widespread practice of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in the region. Oginga condemned the lack of progress on a long-awaited safe space for victims of GBV at the Nguruna Rescue Camp, a facility that was initiated during the term of former Women Representative, Dr. Pamela Odhiambo, but has since stalled.
Oginga called on the current leadership to ensure that the facility is completed and fully operational to provide much-needed support for survivors.
“We must act swiftly to create a safe haven for survivors of violence and ensure the completion of the Nguruna Rescue Camp,” Oginga said. “The current leadership must prioritize the facility’s operationalization as part of a larger commitment to protect women and girls.”
The leaders also expressed concerns over some non-governmental organizations (NGOs) working in the region, accusing them of exploiting the community’s vulnerability for financial gain.
Oginga urged NGOs to focus more on addressing the root causes of GBV rather than profiting from the poverty-stricken communities they claim to help.
In a powerful call to action, he emphasized the need for a coordinated approach between local political leaders, activists, and the community to challenge and ultimately eliminate harmful cultural practices such as FGM.
“We must unite to sensitize the community on the dangers of FGM and other harmful practices. The solution is not just about passing laws; it’s about changing mindsets and creating lasting impact,” he said.
Ms. Ester Onana, a former Migori County Assembly member, underscored the vulnerability of persons with disabilities (PWDs), who are often at greater risk of exploitation, abuse, and intimidation.
Onana called for the establishment of a dedicated fund to support PWD victims, providing legal aid and ensuring that perpetrators face justice.
“Persons with disabilities are often too afraid to report abuse due to stigma and fear of retaliation,” Onana noted. “The government must step in to protect them and create a support system to help them rebuild their lives.”
The leaders also urged families to adopt alternative dispute resolution mechanisms to prevent domestic violence and recommended the introduction of anger management programs and mental health support to address the root causes of family conflicts.
Oginga concluded by stating, “We need a multi-faceted approach to end domestic violence and ensure a safe environment for everyone. By 2030, we must see a significant reduction in gender-based violence across the county.”
With the clock ticking towards the 2030 deadline, the leaders are calling on the government to take bold, immediate action to tackle GBV and protect the most vulnerable members of society.
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