Over 576 GBV Survivors Report in Kisumu as Commission Urges Community Action
KISUMU — A sharp increase in gender-based violence cases in Kisumu County has prompted a public alert from the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), with officials confirming that over 576 survivors have sought help at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) since January.
Davis Okeyo, NGEC’s Nyanza Regional Coordinator, raised the alarm during a community forum held in Nyakach Sub-County. He confirmed that the majority of these cases involved physical and sexual abuse. Many more, he added, go unreported due to fear, stigma, and pressure from family and neighbors.
“Despite the numbers, we believe cases are still underreported. Survivors often face shame, stigma, and even hostility from family members and the wider community,” Okeyo said. “We have seen families gang up against a parent who dares to speak out about their child being violated. That silence is what we must break.”
Cultural barriers and community dis-engagement
Okeyo appealed to cultural leaders and community elders to speak out and help shift long-held attitudes that protect abusers. “We are asking respected community figures to use their positions to break the silence surrounding GBV,” he urged.
He emphasized the need for trusted voices in the community to create safe spaces for survivors to report abuse without fear of retaliation.
Economic burden on victims
The economic impact of gender-based violence remains severe. Citing a 2016 study conducted by the Commission, Okeyo said victims and families often spend close to KSh16,000 just to initiate justice processes and access basic support.
“A family spends KSh3,000 just to report to a chief and KSh3,700 to reach the police. Add the cost of care and support, and it totals around KSh44,000 per case,” he said.
Nationally, Kenya loses an estimated KSh10 billion annually in direct and indirect costs linked to GBV resources that could support education, health, and infrastructure if redirected.
Call for inclusive action
Okeyo acknowledged the government’s legal framework aimed at addressing GBV but stressed that policy alone is not enough. He called for broader public participation and male engagement in addressing the problem.
“Men are not only perpetrators but are increasingly becoming victims too. We must channel our influence positively to end GBV,” he said.
NGEC has pledged continued support for community-driven efforts in line with President William Ruto’s recent call for stronger grassroots engagement in tackling gender-based violence.
Okeyo reaffirmed the Commission’s commitment to supporting local campaigns, training community leaders, and raising awareness to protect survivors and prevent future violence.
“Ending GBV starts in our homes and our communities. We all have a role,” he concluded.
The Commission’s warning reflects growing concern over GBV’s social, emotional, and financial toll on families across Kisumu and beyond. As the numbers rise, NGEC and local leaders are pushing for urgent dialogue, action, and support to reverse the trend.
