In efforts to counter gender-based violence (GBV), Vihiga County has officially opened a Gender Desk and Child Protection Unit at the Vihiga Police Station.
The facility, donated by the Independent Medico-Legal Unit (IMLU), complements the already established GBV Centre in Sabatia and is expected to significantly strengthen the county’s response to GBV cases.
Vihiga County Woman Representative Beatrice Adagala, who presided over the launch, hailed the initiative as a much-needed intervention to provide survivors of abuse with a safe refuge and timely access to justice.
“This centre will provide a safe haven for survivors of gender-based violence, especially women and girls who have suffered in silence for too long,” said Ms Adagala. “It is time to break the culture of fear and silence by encouraging victims to come forward, knowing they will be heard, supported, and protected”.
She issued a stern warning to perpetrators of GBV, stating that the law will take its course regardless of the offender’s rank or social standing.
Adagala further emphasised that the facility will enhance the reporting, documentation, and follow-up of GBV cases, as well as provide critical counseling and psychosocial support services.
County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture, and Social Services, Dr Ruth Agesa, described the launch as a key milestone in Vihiga’s broader fight against GBV.
“Residents must speak out and report such cases to relevant authorities so that culprits can be brought to justice,” urged Dr Agesa.
The event was attended by representatives from women and youth groups, civil society organisations, law enforcement agencies, and local leaders, who pledged to support the sustainability and effectiveness of the GBV response mechanisms.
Community leaders were called upon to take an active role in addressing GBV by encouraging open dialogue, supporting survivors, and helping dismantle societal norms that enable abuse.
The establishment of the new unit underscores Vihiga County’s commitment to ensuring that survivors of gender-based violence are not only protected but also empowered to seek justice and rebuild their lives.
By Terry Munikah and Rose Wasike
