Increasing cases of gender-based violence, murders, domestic conflicts, rape, defilements and incidents where women and girls are being killed by men who later take their own lives have become a growing concern in the central Kenya region.
The worrying trend prompted a public forum in Murang’a County where government agencies, community leaders and stakeholders met to discuss lasting solutions aimed at reducing the increasing number of such crimes and restoring safety within families and communities.
The meeting was organized by the Crime Si Poa initiative, a campaign that has been holding similar public engagements in various counties across the country. Murang’a is among the thirteen counties that have so far hosted the sensitization forums.
According to Peter Ouko, a senior official in the organization, cases of gender-based violence, family wrangles, rape, defilement, and killings involving intimate partners have risen sharply in recent years, causing fear and pain among many families.
“These incidents have become widespread and are deeply worrying. We must work together as communities, families, and institutions to stop them before more lives are destroyed,” said Ouko.
He noted that many cases begin as unresolved domestic disagreements before escalating into violence, adding that early interventions and counseling are necessary measures to prevent the tragedies.
His remarks were echoed by Deputy regional police commander, David Wambua, who said security agencies are strengthening measures to respond to the GBV cases and ensure justice for victims.
“We are enhancing our strategies so that we can effectively respond to and reduce these offences. We also urge members of the public to report cases early so that action can be taken in good time,” said Wambua.
He added that cooperation between residents and law enforcement officers is essential in addressing insecurity and protecting vulnerable groups, especially women and children.
The forum was also supported by NACADA, which linked many of the crimes to the abuse of alcohol and narcotic drugs.
Edwin Irungu, an official of the agency serving Kiambu and Murang’a counties, said substance abuse remains one of the major drivers of violence in homes and communities.
“Many of these crimes are fueled by excessive alcohol consumption and drug abuse. Addressing addiction is key to solving the problem and building stable families,” said Irungu.
He encouraged young people and parents to seek help whenever addiction challenges arise, saying rehabilitation and awareness programs can help save lives.
Meanwhile, the national government together with other stakeholders has called on religious leaders, schools, community groups and local administrators to join efforts in fighting the vice, promoting peaceful conflict resolution, and restoring harmony in society.
By Bernard Munyao
