Friday marked a landmark moment in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in Kenya when the Gender, Culture, Arts and Heritage Cabinet Secretary (CS), Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, alongside her Principal Secretary, Anne Wang’ombe, presided over the official launch of Hope Centre Kapenguria at the Kapenguria County Referral Hospital in West Pokot County.
Speaking during the event, CS Cheptumo emphasised the urgent need to tackle gender-based violence, calling it a national crisis that required both grassroots engagement and systemic response.
“Today marks the beginning of a new chapter for West Pokot. This rescue centre is not just a building — it is a beacon of hope, a sanctuary for survivors, and a firm declaration that violence will no longer be tolerated,” said CS Cheptumo.
The rescue Centre will offer comprehensive services to survivors of GBV, including medical treatment, psychosocial support, legal aid referrals, temporary shelter, and counselling.
Staffed with trained professionals and linked to local authorities, the Centre is expected to greatly improve response times and outcomes for victims seeking help in the region.
West Pokot has long struggled with high rates of gender-based violence, exacerbated by cultural practices, economic hardship, and limited access to survivor support services. Until now, many victims were forced to travel hundreds of kilometres to seek help, often discouraged or unable to do so. The opening of the centre represents a critical step in bridging that gap.
The Principal Secretary, speaking during the event, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to addressing gender injustices through policy, partnerships, and direct intervention.
“We are committed to decentralising support systems so that even the most remote areas are not left behind. This centre is a model that we hope to replicate in other counties,” the PS stated.
West Pokot Governor Simon Kachapin, who was present, lauded the national government’s efforts in enhancing community protection and pledged continued support in community outreach and resource allocation.
“For too long in our communities, both genders have endured violence in silence; therefore, this Centre gives them a voice and, more importantly, a lifeline from such atrocities,” said the Governor.
Community elders and youth representatives also took to the podium, underscoring the importance of education and cultural transformation in breaking the cycle of violence.
The centre was funded by the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya under the Accelerate Programme in partnership with both national and county governments.
The event was graced by healthcare professionals, women’s rights advocates, and local residents gathered for an occasion that promised not only hope but tangible change.
As the ceremonial ribbon was cut and the doors to the centre were opened, applause erupted from the crowd. Survivors, some present at the event, shared testimonies of resilience and healing, bringing tears and applause from those in attendance.
The day ended with the planting of a symbolic “tree of hope” in the hospital compound — a reminder that healing and justice must take root in both institutions and hearts.
With the launch of this rescue Centre, Kapenguria now positions itself amongst the champions of gender justice within the region to protect and empower its most vulnerable.
By Parklea Ivor and Victor Musamali
