Kiambu unveils data collection tool to better data gathering on Gender-Based Violence

SYLVIA WANJOHI-KNA 

The Kiambu County Department for Gender and Affirmative Action has launched a sexual and gender-based violence (S-GBV) data collection tool to document survivors and perpetrators.

The tool will assist in collecting GBV data, with the information designed to ensure that GBV actors gather a common set of data points.

It will also enhance the accuracy and efficiency of S-GBV data collection, ensuring that cases are meticulously tracked and reported.

Speaking at the Kiambu Bus Park during the launch of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, Olympia Karimi, the Kiambu Director for Gender and Affirmative Action, stated that the development is part of a broader strategy to ad dress S-GBV comprehensively across Kiambu.

The 16 Days of Activism campaign, observed globally, begins on the International Day for the Elimination of Violence Against Women on November 25 and runs through International Human Rights Day on December 10 to raise aware ness and inspire action to combat gender-based violence.

The campaign seeks not only to raise awareness, challenge societal norms that perpetuate violence, and promote safety for all individuals, regardless of age or gender, but also to unite communities in taking a stand against S-GBV and ensuring that no one suffers in silence. 

Speaking at the Kiambu Bus park during the launch, Karimi, under scored the importance of unity in eradicating violence. “This year’s theme calls for united action to enhance protections, hold perpetrators accountable, and foster a culture of respect and dignity.

The government remains committed to enforcing laws, addressing root causes, and ensuring survivors have access to justice and support systems,” Karimi said.

Kiambu Deputy County Commissioner (DCC)Titus Macharia reinforced the government’s commitment to addressing S-GBV through collaboration with the community.

“We must work together to promote a culture of good morals at the family level. Many S-GBV cases are linked to drug and alcohol abuse, and mental health issues. We will ensure perpetrators are held accountable while also addressing these root causes,” he said.

Acknowledging the role of faith-based organisations, Macharia thanked churches for their continued efforts in supporting survivors of S-GBV and urged residents to cultivate values of respect and dignity at all levels of society.

County Executive Committee Member (CECM) for Education, Gender, Culture, and Social Services, Nancy Gichungw’a, called for transformative action through education and cultural reform.