Passaris, Wango'mbe urge caution to tackle GBV surge

From left: Gender PS Anne Wango'mbe, Healthcare Assistance Kenya (HAK) founder Fanis Lisiagali and Nairobi Woman Rep Esther Passaris in Nairobi. [Collins Kweyu, Standard]

Gender Principal Secretary Anne Wango'mbe has advised caution during the festive season to curb gender-based violence (GBV).

Wango'mbe made the remarks in Narobi recently while receiving 42 headphones from Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris, donated by the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF).

"If people respect each other during these festive celebrations, domestic violence cases can drastically reduce," said Wango'mbe.

She added that with many families spending time together, parents should seek peaceful ways to resolve disagreements instead of quarreling openly in front of their children.

Passaris echoed the call, highlighting the rise in femicide cases and urging women, especially young girls, to avoid walking alone and ensure their drinks are protected to prevent being drugged.

"The headphones donated by NGAAF will assist the ministry's GBV call centre in linking with police GBV desks to respond to cases swiftly," noted Passaris.

Healthcare Assistance Kenya (HAK) founder , Fanis Lisiagali, revealed that 9,204 GBV cases had been reported this month alone, with Nairobi County leading at 882 cases.HAK operates a 24-hour call center for survivors of GBV in Kenya.

Kakamega and Bungoma counties followed with 776 and 555 cases, respectively.

Mandera, Lamu, and West Pokot counties reported the fewest cases, with 20, 15, and 15, respectively.

"This highlights the need for continuous awareness and intervention," said Lisiangali.