Uasin Gishu Partners with Top Universities for Innovation Boost

Uasin Gishu County on Thursday hosted a high-level meeting with officials from Linköping University, Sweden, and Moi University’s School of Medicine to explore collaborative strategies for strengthening child protection systems and addressing gender-based violence (GBV). The visiting team was led by Prof. Laura Korhonen, a Professor of Psychiatry, alongside Dr. Risper Tororey from Moi University.

 

The engagement brought together officials from the Departments of Education, Social Protection, and Health, including CECM Eng. Lucy Ngendo, Chief Officer Marion Birgen, Director Regina Keen, Dr. Billy Lubanga, and Mr. Johannes Kibet. Discussions focused on joint efforts to strengthen policies, build capacity, and support vulnerable children and GBV victims across the county.

 

Following the meeting, the Swedish delegation toured the Eldoret Children Rescue Centre, where they interacted with staff and children and assessed ongoing rehabilitation programs. The visit underscored the need for resilient community support structures and professionalized frontline services.

 

“This initiative marks a significant step towards building resilient community support structures and professionalising frontline services for the most vulnerable members of society,” said Eng. Lucy. She further called for collective action and a strengthened response, highlighting the recent reports concerning the rise in Gender-Based Violence (GBV). 

 

Prof. Korhonen affirmed Linköping University’s commitment to providing specialized training for social workers, healthcare providers, and law enforcement personnel engaged in child protection and GBV response. She also lauded Governor Dr. Jonathan Bii for promoting safe spaces and supporting GBV survivors through health and social interventions.

 

Chief Officer Marion Birgen emphasized the importance of the partnership in tackling child abuse, exploitation, and neglect, while the CECM pledged free uniforms for P1 and P2 ECDE learners at the centre. The meeting was also attended by David Magut (Centre Manager), James Bett (Therapist, MTRH), Sofia Toroitich (County GBV Coordinator), and Paul Sambu (Deputy Director for Culture and Heritage).