Kajiado County has become the first county in the country to introduce a comprehensive legislative framework aimed at protecting all genders from Gender-Based Violence (GBV).
The Kajiado County Gender-Based Violence Response and Prevention Policy 2025 is expected to strengthen the county’s fight against GBV by outlining clear procedures for prevention, response, and punishment of perpetrators.
The policy was unveiled during the closing ceremony of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an event that brought together community leaders, activists, residents, and representatives from various non-governmental organizations.
Speaking at the event, the spouse to the governor, Edna Lenku, praised the initiative, describing it as a transformative tool that goes beyond being a mere document. She emphasized that the policy will guide long-term action and accountability in addressing GBV across the county.
Light Up Hope official Samuel Onsarigo noted that the organization has intensified its efforts to reduce GBV cases, saying that coordinated action among stakeholders is essential in scaling down incidents. He added that the new policy provides a structured framework that will support ongoing interventions.
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Kajiado County Gender Officer Catherine Mutinda urged residents to use social media and digital platforms responsibly, warning that misuse of technology continues to fuel online harassment and other forms of digital violence. Mutinda for collective responsibility in ensuring that technology is used in ways that promote safety and respect.
Stakeholders from AMREF also welcomed the policy, commending the recent declaration by Maa elders to eradicate Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) within the community. They pledged to partner with the county in training medical practitioners at Kajiado Referral Hospital on managing FGM-related complications such as obstetric fistula. The organization also committed to training psychologists to provide therapy and psychosocial support to survivors.
County Gender Officer Mary Taiko lauded the new policy, describing it as a groundbreaking step for Kajiado. She said the framework clearly outlines how GBV cases should be handled and the penalties for offenders, offering a structured approach that has long been lacking not only at the county level, but also at the national level
By Masaki Enock
