GBV blamed on land disputes and drug abuse in Kirinyaga
Land-related disputes and abuse of drugs are major contributors to gender-based violence (GBV) in Kirinyaga County.
This was revealed during public participation for Kirinyaga County residents held at Kirinyaga Central CDF Hall, Kerugoya, by the presidential task force on GBV.
The group is tasked with identifying trends and hotspots for GBV, evaluating the adequacy of current laws, and proposing amendments to strengthen enforcement mechanisms.
Anthony Nzioki, team leader of the task force that visited Kirinyaga County, said they have listened to residents of Kirinyaga and they have contributed freely to the national agenda by accepting that the menace is in the society and should be addressed.
“The people of Kirinyaga have spoken freely on this matter affecting our country and agreed it is there within our society,” He said
Mr. Nzioki noted that, specific to Kirinyaga, the majority have singled out land disputes as the biggest contributor, in addition to alcoholism and drug abuse.
“This process is going on nationally, and what we have gathered here is not the final cause, but specific to this county, they have said the cases of land disputes, alcoholism and substance abuse are the top issues. We also noted the strength of a family, some are unable to raise the entire needs of the facility is a contributor,” Nzioki added.
Government intervention
Nationally, Nzioki said, in the year 2023, the GBV cases reported were 535, which jumped up to 578 in 2024. However, this year statistics may be more accurate considering the daily reports in the media on the cases in various counties.
Lucy Njeri, member of the taskforce and nominated MCA in the Kirinyaga County Assembly, thanked the president for forming the taskforce to collect views from the communities and identify the root cause of the violence.
She added that gender-based violence was a reality among both males and females, and everyone should be engaged in the discussion.
During event the National Government Administration Officers, survivors, youths, Individuals with expertise in related fields, clergy, civil society among others participated.
