Kibabii University today hosted the signing of a memorandum of understanding and launch of Kenya-Finland Bilateral Programme on Gender-based Violence in a ceremony graced by the Cabinet Secretary, Ministry of Public Service, Gender and Affirmative Action Hon. Aisha Jumwa Katana. The delegation was welcomed by the Vice Chancellor Prof. Isaac Ipara Odeo.
A survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) dubbed Kenya Demographic and Health Survey 2022 revealed that a high percentage 62%, of women experienced Gender Based Violence (GBV) in Bungoma County. To reverse this trend, a multi-sectoral approach was put in place in 2022, focusing on key issues to address GBV risks and vulnerability.
According to CS Jumwa, the fight against cases of GBV has become top of the agenda of government, and particularly her Ministry.
“The cases of Gender-based Violence are an embarrassment to us in leadership and we have committed to rally all troupes to stop the menace,” she said. She called upon opinion leaders in the community to embrace the support of the Finnish Government to put to an end the vices.
The Government of Finland through its Ambassador H.E. Pirkka Tapiola joined the initiative that will see programmes implemented in the counties of Bungoma, Samburu and Kilifi that were most affected, according to the report. This culminated to the signing of the memorandum of understanding.
The event was also attended by the Governor, Bungoma County H.E. Kenneth Lusaka, the Woman Representative Hon. Catherine Wambilianga among other leaders.
On his part, Governor Lusaka reiterated his commitment in partnering with the National Government as well other well wishers to ensure dignity and safety to women, girls, men and boys as that is their fundamental human right.
