Strengthening Community Action Against GBV and Human Rights Violations in Kisumu

A crucial sensitisation meeting on the impact of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and human rights violations among Key and SOGIESC (Sexual Orientation, Gender Identity, Gender Expression and Sex Characteristics) populations was recently held at Migosi Sub-County Hospital in Kisumu.

The session brought together senior police officers from multiple police stations, senior chiefs and assistant chiefs, ward administrators, and survivors of violence. Survivors courageously shared their personal experiences, shedding light on the urgent need for coordinated action to end GBV and protect human rights.

Key Outcomes of the Sensitisation Meeting

The dialogue produced concrete commitments from key local leaders and security agencies:

• Maximum support in apprehending perpetrators: Senior police officers pledged swift and decisive action to ensure that cases of GBV and human rights violations are thoroughly investigated and that offenders face justice.

• Provision of safe reporting spaces: Chiefs and their assistants, along with ward administrators, agreed to create and maintain safe spaces where survivors can report incidents without fear of stigma or retaliation.

These pledges signal a stronger, united approach to protecting the rights and safety of Key and SOGIESC populations.

Building a Safer, More Inclusive Community

The meeting underscored the power of collaboration between government administrators, law enforcement, and community members. By listening directly to survivors and aligning efforts across institutions, Kisumu County is taking significant steps toward eliminating GBV and safeguarding the rights of all people, regardless of sexual orientation, gender identity, or expression.

The commitments made at Migosi Sub-County Hospital represent a meaningful shift from dialogue to action—an essential move to ensure justice, safety, and dignity for every member of the community.