Calls for urgent fixes in failing GBV support systems

Nafula Wafula, director of Ushindi Empowerment Group. [David Gichuru, Standard]

Stakeholders in gender-based violence (GBV) support systems are calling for greater collaboration and stronger referral pathways to enhance survivor support.

At a recent forum in Nairobi, participants identified significant gaps in existing GBV response mechanisms.

Nafula Wafula, director of Ushindi Empowerment Group, a non-profit organisation, stressed GBV rescue centres' crucial role in empowering survivors and accelerating their recovery through targeted support programmes.

Viridiana Wasike, director of fund management services at the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), praised the forum, noting that initiatives like the Safe Homes Safe Space Campaign would strengthen protection and support for GBV victims.

The forum, part of the 16 Days of Activism against GBV, recognised 20 women leaders from Nairobi, Kajiado, and Kiambu counties for their efforts in combating GBV at the grassroots level.

 "Strengthening GBV support systems is essential to tackling the root causes of violence and ensuring survivors receive the necessary help," said Wasike