The County Government of Vihiga has confirmed its commitment to strengthening partnerships that promote justice, equality and the protection of vulnerable members of society following a consultative meeting with the African Humanist Organization (AHO).
The meeting, chaired by the County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Gender, Youth, Sports, Culture and Social Services, Dr. Ruth Agesa, brought together county officials and a delegation from the African Humanist Organization led by Ragnar Sverrisson to explore areas of collaboration aimed at advancing human rights, social justice and community well-being across the county.
The forum focused on several priority areas, including the prevention and response to sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), strengthening access to justice, empowering women and youth, and promoting human rights education through school-based justice programmes.
Speaking at the meeting, Dr. Agesa confirmed the County Government’s commitment to working closely with development partners to implement programmes that safeguard vulnerable populations and promote inclusive development.
She said that strategic partnerships remain vital in complementing government efforts to address emerging social challenges and improve the quality of life for residents through sustainable, people-centred interventions.
“The County Government of Vihiga remains committed to fostering collaborations that advance justice, equality and social inclusion,” said Dr. Agesa.
“By working together with partners such as the African Humanist Organization, we can strengthen our support systems, protect vulnerable groups and create opportunities that empower our communities,” she added.
The meeting highlighted the need for coordinated interventions to prevent and respond to sexual and gender-based violence, with participants emphasizing survivor-centred approaches, public awareness campaigns and collaborative efforts to address the root causes of gender-based violence.
The two parties also discussed enhancing school-based justice support through the establishment and strengthening of Haki Clubs in learning institutions.
Haki clubs are expected to equip learners with knowledge of their rights and responsibilities while nurturing a culture of justice, respect for human rights and peaceful conflict resolution among young people.
Recognising the critical role played by women and youth in socio-economic development, the meeting further explored strategies for promoting inclusive empowerment programmes through strategic partnerships.
The proposed initiatives are expected to create greater opportunities for economic empowerment, leadership development and meaningful participation of women and young people in community development activities.
Participants further emphasized the importance of improving access to justice for survivors of violence and other vulnerable groups by strengthening existing support agencies and enhancing referral pathways to ensure timely and effective assistance.
Speaking on behalf of the African Humanist Organization, delegation leader, Ragnar Sverrisson, said that the organisation was committed to partnering with the County Government of Vihiga in implementing programmes that advance justice, equality and human dignity.
Sverrisson also noted that working together with the county governments was essential in developing sustainable community-based interventions that promote social transformation, protect human rights and improve access to justice for all members of society.
The two parties undertook to deepen their collaboration in implementing programmes that enhance justice systems, empower communities and foster inclusive growth across Vihiga County.
The consultative engagement marks another milestone in the county government’s efforts to build strong partnerships with development organisations in addressing social challenges and improving the welfare of residents.
By Quinter Vunyoli
