Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture and Children Services Hanna Wendot Cheptumo has called for collaborative efforts to end Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the country.
Wendot stated that the society is not safe when cases of violence and recklessness persist, adding that the brazenness of these crimes demand the attention and resolve of every citizen.
“I therefore call upon community leaders, religious institutions, council of elders, nyumba kumi, families, men and women to join the national effort to prevent and respond to GBV in all its forms,” she said.
The CS was speaking at the Narok County Commissioner’s office the CS confirmed that the recommendations in the Presidential taskforce report GBV will be implemented in full and with urgency.
She reiterated that her department will continue working closely with all government arms as well as development partners and civil society to ensure protection for victims, swift and impartial justice for perpetrators and sustained prevention measures.
“We will strengthen coordination, expand survivor support services, accelerate implementation of the Taskforce recommendations, and ensure that accountability reaches every level,” she continued.
Wendot warned that any form of exploitation or exposure to harm under the guise of creativity is unacceptable and will be met with the full force of the law.
“Incidents that violate one’s dignity, liberty, and the security of a person also violates cultural rights safeguarded in the constitution,” she continued.
The constitution recognizes culture as the foundation of the nation but expressly rejects harmful practices that infringe on human rights.
The CS insisted on the protection of children and young people from exploitation, harmful practices and any situation that compromised their development and dignity.
“Children and young people are human beings with inherent dignity and rights that must be respected and safeguarded,” said Wendot.
The CS had visited the county on a follow-up mission of a woman who had been assaulted by her four brothers for her refusal to get married to the man of their choice.
She ordered the police to hunt and arrest the four brothers who went missing immediately the heinous act went viral over the social media platforms.
Also present during the briefing was Principal Secretary for Gender Ann Wang’ombe, Narok County Women Representative Rebecca Tonkei, Narok North Member of Parliament Agnes Pareyio, Narok County Commissioner Kipkech Lotiatia and a number of gender stakeholders.
By Ann Salaton
