Kwale moves to operationalise GBV Act with new policy framework
Consultations with stakeholders on the policy framework have already been concluded. The draft policy is expected to be forwarded to the County Attorney before being tabled in the County Assembly for adoption.
The Kwale County Government has embarked on drafting policies and regulations to operationalise the Gender-Based Violence (GBV) Act, 2023.
According to the Department of Gender and the Department of Social Services, consultations with stakeholders on the policy framework have already been concluded. The draft policy is expected to be forwarded to the County Attorney before being tabled in the County Assembly for adoption.
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Speaking during a forum organised by Peace Tree Network to discuss gender legislation in the county, officials said the process will strengthen the fight against sexual and gender-based violence.
“We are now preparing a policy so that the GBV Act 2023 can be put into effect. Initially, the plan was to begin with the policy, but due to limited resources, we were only able to finalise the Act first. That is why the policy lagged,” said Nelly Amoite, Kwale County Gender Officer.
Director of Social Services in Kwale, Samson Nyawa, confirmed that the county is also drafting a law on gender and social inclusion to complement the GBV Act.
“We have already submitted the draft to a consultant to ensure it is aligned with legal standards. Once validated, it will be forwarded to the County Attorney, then to the Cabinet, and finally presented to the County Assembly for adoption. Alongside this, we are preparing regulations to ensure the GBV Act is fully implemented,” he said.
A section of the stakeholders during the forum organised by Peace Tree Network. (Photo: Farhiya Hussein)
Civil society organisations have called for greater community participation in shaping the draft policies.
“There is an ongoing gender mainstreaming policy being debated at the assembly. We wanted to hear more from the community so that the final draft reflects their lived experiences and addresses the challenges people face on the ground,” noted Racheal Akinyi, Planning Officer at Peace Tree Network.
Young people in Kwale also urged leaders to support their involvement in governance and gender initiatives.
“I would like to encourage policymakers and the government to give young people space to take part in leadership and decision-making,” said Gloria Wasike, a youth participant.
Another youth, Abigail Ndizi, pointed to the county’s female leadership as a source of inspiration.
“The county has already shown us that women can lead, with our governor setting the example. We need to build on that momentum,” she said.
She said the move marks a significant step in ensuring Kwale County has a robust legal framework to combat gender-based violence and promote gender equality.
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