Government, NGOs Partner to Strengthen Support for GBV Survivors in Nyeri

The Principal Secretary for Gender Affairs, Anne Wang'ombe, today convened a consultative meeting with key stakeholders to enhance support systems for survivors of gender-based violence (GBV), with a particular focus on mental health and psychosocial care.

The meeting, held at Teleposta Towers in Nairobi, brought together representatives from international non-governmental organizations, including IPSIA Kenya and Group for Transcultural Relations (GRT). Both organizations are actively engaged in supporting rural communities across Kenya, particularly in Nyeri County.

Also present was the Director for Gender-Based Violence Mitigation, Michael Kariuki, alongside representatives from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF) in Nyeri County and the Wangu Kanja Foundation.

Discussions centered on expanding collaborative efforts aimed at strengthening prevention strategies and improving support services for GBV survivors. A key focus was placed on integrating mental health awareness and psychosocial support into existing programs in Nyeri County, where both IPSIA Kenya and GRT have established operations.

PS Wang’ombe emphasized the critical link between gender-based violence and mental health, noting that survivors often endure long-term psychological trauma. She called for a more holistic and coordinated approach that combines prevention, response, and recovery services.

“Addressing GBV requires not only immediate protection and legal support but also sustained mental health care to help survivors rebuild their lives,” she said.

Stakeholders at the meeting expressed commitment to deepening partnerships and leveraging shared expertise to enhance community-based interventions. The collaboration is expected to strengthen outreach programs, improve access to counseling services, and promote awareness campaigns targeting both prevention and survivor support.

The initiative reflects ongoing efforts by the government and its partners to tackle GBV as a multifaceted issue requiring integrated solutions across sectors.