Mandera stakeholders launch action plan to combat GBV, empower women and girls
In a joint statement, the stakeholders agreed to form sub sub-subcommittee to lead the development of the group's terms of reference.
The Mandera Gender Technical Working Group, comprising key stakeholders in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), has resolved to develop a county action plan as part of a determined campaign to end violence against women and girls.
The stakeholders who gathered in Mandera town supported the action plan that they said would enhance community engagement activities to identify locally relevant solutions to prevent violence, support survivors, and further strengthen policies and laws against GBV.
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Mandera County Chief Officer for Women Empowerment, Farhiya Ali Abdullahi, who chaired the stakeholders’ forum supported by the Centre for Rights, Education and Awareness (CREW) Kenya, said the meeting focused on drafting a county action plan to address existing gaps in the fight against GBV.
"The plan will help to prevent and manage increasing cases of GBV in the county," she said.
She said the action plan will help to engage communities at the grassroots level towards developing local solutions in the fight against GBV.
Members of the technical working group from the county, national government, and civil society attend a meeting in Mandera town. (Photo: Issa Hussein)
In a joint statement, the stakeholders agreed to also form sub sub-subcommittee to lead the development of the group's terms of reference.
They urged the County Department of Gender to identify a suitable partner organisation that will spearhead the drafting of the GBV action plan.
The group further suggested that initial steps towards the development of a GBV policy be tailored to the unique needs of Mandera County.
Officials representing CREW Kenya affirmed the commitment to supporting the county in promoting Women's rights and addressing GBV through coordinated policies and collaborative action.
A week ago, the Kenya Women Senators Association( KEWOSA), in partnership with human rights organisations, officially launched an awareness and empowerment campaign to eliminate GBV in Mandera County.
Nominated Senator Mariam Sheikh, who spearheaded the initiative, expressed concern over the increasing cases of GBV, with more than 400 incidents reported in 2004.
During the event, she promised that KEWOSA would push for stronger legislation and increased protection for women and girls in the region.
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