The Government has reaffirmed its firm resolve to combat Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and protect children from all forms of abuse across Kenya.

Speaking in Nyeri County, Principal Secretary for Gender Affairs and Affirmative Action, Anne Wang’ombe, described GBV as a national crisis, pledging tighter enforcement, community mobilisation, and zero tolerance for abuse.

“The barbaric acts occurring in our country cannot and must not be normalized. We must confront and dismantle the culture of silence that allows such atrocities to persist,” stated PS Wang’ombe.

The emergency meeting, held at the Nyeri County Commissioner’s office, brought together leaders including Nyeri Woman Representative Rahab Mukami, MP Duncan Maina, NGAO officials, and education stakeholders, following a worrying surge in GBV cases.

A particularly tragic case involving Baby Rachael, a young girl defiled after being sent home from school, highlighted the gravity of the issue. She is now recovering after undergoing life-saving surgery, and the suspect is in police custody.

“This must be a wake-up call,” PS Wang’ombe declared. “Protecting our children is a moral obligation that demands united action.”

The Ministry also announced plans to expand national interventions and bolster accountability at the grassroots level in partnership with other government agencies.