City joins anti-violence campaign

Nairobi County has joined institutions and organisations in marking 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence by launching a campaign at Mama Lucy Kibaki Hospital.

The campaign dubbed "Tuungane Tuangamize Ubakaji na Unajisi" was unveiled yesterday by the acting County Health Executive Mercy Kamau.

"The rate at which gender-based violence is rising is alarming. More than 21 per cent of women have undergone sexual violence, with 60 per cent having being assaulted but have never been reported," said Ms Kamau.

She said this presents a worrying picture for the county and the country at large, noting that it is high time the society took a firm stand against the vice.

"The survival and well-being of all people, particularly women and children, is not only an important right but also central to achievement of Vision 2030. We are totally committed to working with all like-minded stakeholders to ensure Nairobians are adequately protected and offered quality services if the unfortunate event of gender-based violence occurs," she added.

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Echoing her sentiments was the hospital's Deputy Medical Superintendent Musa Mohammed. Dr Musa cited the high number of gender-based violence victims the hospital receives. He noted that the hospital had to create space to cater for the victims due to the growing numbers and needs.

"This sometimes translates to a slowdown in attendance to other medical issues, owing to the urgency of some of the gender-based violence cases," said Dr Musa.

Musa called upon leaders and the community to stand up against gender violence, which he believes when stopped will enable the staff at the hospital address other medical issues efficiently and effectively.

Also present was Medecins Sans Frontieres Project Manager Torre Corrine. MSF has been working closely with Mama Lucy Hospital towards elimination of sexual violence and their core mandate has been rescue and support for sexual violence victims.