Kisumu County has intensified collaboration with the National Government in a renewed push to curb rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and strengthen support systems for survivors.
Deputy Governor Dr. Mathew Owili hosted Ms Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, the Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, Arts and Heritage, during a high-level meeting at City Hall, Kisumu, to strengthen the collaboration.
The meeting brought together senior officials from both levels of government who focused on coming up with practical interventions to reduce GBV cases and enhance social protection frameworks across the county.
Among those present was State Department for Children Services Principal Secretary (PS) Carren Agengo, alongside Kisumu County Commissioner Benson Leparmorijo and several county executives.
At the centre of the talks was the urgent need to strengthen the capacity of rescue and recovery centres to effectively support survivors, amid growing concern over increasing GBV incidents.
Dr. Owili said the county is keen on building stronger institutional linkages with the Ministry to address the challenge.
“We held extensive discussions on strengthening collaboration between the County and the Ministry to reduce Gender-Based Violence and enhance the capacity of our rescue centres across the county,” he said.
Dr Owili added that sustained engagement would be key in mainstreaming gender issues, protecting vulnerable populations, and advancing inclusive social development.
County Executive Committee Member for Sports, Gender, Culture and Youth Affairs, Beatrice Odongo underscored the importance of partnerships in addressing GBV.
“Our discussions centered on strengthening partnerships to combat Gender-Based Violence and improve the capacity of rescue centres across the county,” she said adding: “We remain committed to protecting vulnerable members of our community and advancing inclusive, gender-responsive development.”
The leaders resolved to maintain close coordination, with a focus on building institutional capacity, expanding access to survivor support services, and fostering safer communities.
The renewed commitment comes against the backdrop of a surge in GBV cases in Kisumu, where hundreds of survivors have sought assistance at local recovery centres.
The true scale of the crisis may be significantly higher, with many incidents going unreported due to stigma, fear, and limited access to reporting centers and support mechanisms.
By Dorothy Pamella
