Commissioners of the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) have urged men to take an active role in the fight against Gender-Based Violence (GBV), emphasizing their critical contribution to creating a violence-free society.
During a two-day sensitization forum held in Murang’a County, Commissioner Mbithuka Nzomo highlighted the importance of breaking the culture of silence among men.
While men are often perceived as aggressors in domestic violence, Nzomo noted that many unreported cases reveal them as victims too. “Men have adopted a code of silence, staying at home and suffering in isolation,” he said, adding “As a society, we must encourage their involvement in eliminating GBV, not just as the problem but as active contributors to a society free of GBV.”
Nzomo was accompanied by his counterpart Caroline Lentupuru also noted that law enforcement agencies have a challenge in responding to GBV cases effectively.
He proposed capacity-building programmes to equip security personnel with the skills to handle such cases sensitively and efficiently. “Police officers need to be trained on how to effectively handle gender-based violence cases. This will also help in eliminating the cases from our communities,” stated the commissioner.
On his part, Kenneth Kihato, the Chief Officer for Culture and Gender in Murang’a County, said most men are not in social welfare groups where they can talk and share ideas, learn, and benefit from government initiatives.
He said these groups can also act as therapy forums where men can share instances where they experienced GBV, and what steps they can take to overcome such challenges.
To empower victims of GBV, Kihato also said he will propose to the county executive to establish a rescue center where survivors of GBV can be helped easily.
“Our men are unaware of many programmes aimed at social empowerment. We must ensure they also benefit from various county initiatives. We are advocating for a rescue center for survivors of GBV, and through consultative forums facilitated by the Department of Culture and Social Services, men and women can access the help and resources they need,” added Kihato.
On his part, Mr Paul Karua, a resident said that men have been overlooked in opportunities and called for the government to involve them, particularly in education and economic empowerment.
“We are suffering in silence and turning to drug abuse just to cope with the harsh situations we undergo. Men have been ignored, while girls are educated and given job opportunities. Boys are being left behind,” observed Karua.
NGEC has rolled out countrywide sensitization forums targeting to combat soaring cases of GBV which have left many dead and others injured.
By Bernard Munyao and Anjilwa Francis