The Presidential Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Femicide has raised alarm over increasing cases of domestic violence and femicide in Tharaka Nithi County, calling for urgent multi-sectoral action to curb the crisis.
Speaking during a public participation forum at Kathwana County Hall, the Vice Chairperson of the Technical Working Group, Dr. Sam Nthenya, said the group had identified domestic violence as a major issue in the region—one that is severely underreported due to cultural norms, fear of stigma, and poor access to justice systems.
“One of the most alarming issues we have observed in Tharaka Nithi is domestic violence, which is severely underreported. Cultural norms silence many victims, and this creates a dangerous environment where perpetrators go unpunished,” said Dr Nthenya.
He also highlighted a worrying increase in suicides among men in recent months, noting that emotional and psychological stress often goes unaddressed.
Additionally, people living with disabilities in the county are also victims of GBV but face added discrimination and lack of support.
Dr Nthenya expressed concern over rising cases of defilement and highlighted challenges faced by university students, particularly those cohabiting without formal marriages, who are also exposed to GBV but are not covered adequately by current policies.
“How do we address GBV among university students who are cohabiting but are not in legal unions? This is a grey area that needs urgent attention,” he posed.
On access to justice, Dr Nthenya revealed that forensic samples must be transported all the way to Nairobi, causing serious delays in prosecution and frustrating survivors’ quest for justice.
“The link between survivors, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), and the judiciary is weak. The justice chain is slow, and this discourages victims from pursuing their cases,” he said.
He also called for the establishment of shelters and rescue centers in Tharaka Nithi, stressing that survivors often have no safe place to go after reporting cases.
Beatrice Karwitha, a member of the Presidential Technical Working Group, raised concerns over lack of public awareness, noting that many residents are still unaware of the national helpline 1195.
“Publicity around available services is poor. The government needs to invest more in communication strategies,” she said.
She emphasized that GBV must be treated as a national security threat, adding that efforts should be focused on prevention rather than reaction.
“Prevention is better than cure. We cannot wait for violence to happen and then react. Prevention remains the most effective strategy,” she stressed.
Wrapping up the forum, Tharaka Nithi County Commissioner David Gitonga echoed the team’s sentiments and emphasized the role of local leadership and law enforcement in raising awareness.
“The public must be sensitized on what GBV is, where to report, and what help is available. Chiefs, sub-chiefs, gender desk officers, and other local leaders must work together to inform and protect residents,” he said.
By Christine Ngitori
