Kirinyaga: The Gichugu Sub-County in Kirinyaga is grappling with a rise in land-related disputes, identified as a major catalyst for gender-based violence (GBV) in the area. Gichugu Assistant County Commissioner (ACC) Chrispin Otieno highlighted this issue during the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence.
According to Kenya News Agency, land disputes are a daily occurrence in his office and significantly contribute to GBV. He emphasized that women are often the victims in these cases, facing disinheritance or displacement from their homes during inheritance disputes. Otieno proposed the use of wills and proper land documentation to mitigate these challenges. He advised parents to organize family assets to ensure smoother succession and less administrative difficulty.
The ACC spoke at an event marking the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women, part of a global campaign running from November 25th to December 10th. The Kirinyaga County government organized a walk from Kutus Town to Kamiigua Polytechnic to commemorate the day, offering a platform for individuals and organizations to advocate for the prevention and elimination of violence against women and girls.
The event saw participation from officials of both national and county governments, stakeholders in the health sector, and local gender crusaders. Otieno commended the county government’s efforts in raising public awareness about GBV.
He stressed that GBV affects both men and women and urged every victim to report to the appropriate authorities, highlighting the availability of gender-based violence desks in all police stations.
Otieno also linked the rise in suicide cases in the county to mental health issues and the tendency of individuals to keep their struggles private.
Millicent Ngari, Kirinyaga County Executive Committee (CEC) member for Gender, noted that the fight against gender-based violence is ongoing and requires a unified effort across all genders. She acknowledged that GBV is not solely a women’s issue.
The CEC mentioned that a section in Kerugoya Hospital has been designated specifically for GBV cases, offering counseling and psychological services to victims. Additionally, the county has appointed gender crusaders in every ward to assist in raising awareness and providing services to those unable to reach specific offices.