Vihiga: Vihiga County government, in collaboration with the Federation of Women Lawyers (FIDA), the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC), and other stakeholders, is working on policies to guide the implementation of laws on sexual and gender-based violence. The County Executive Committee Member for Social Services, Sports and Culture, Anne Desma, emphasized the need to set clear and measurable targets to achieve the objectives outlined in the policies and ensure the protection of the rights of victims and children.

According to Kenya News Agency, Desma urged stakeholders involved in the implementation process to coordinate their activities to ensure the designed policies to eliminate sexual and gender-based violence are effectively practiced. She made these remarks at SOSA Cottages in Gisambai sub-county, highlighting a disconnect between the Gender Department and other related sectors, which could hinder efforts for effective integration of gender perspectives. Desma stressed the importance of fostering stronger collaboration to mainstream gender issues across all sectors but raised concerns about limited financial support for gender activities.

Arthur Lisimba, the Director for Social Services and Gender, noted the rise in gender-based violence cases, underscoring the need to expedite the implementation process. He highlighted the importance of establishing a gender-based recovery center to address the specific needs of survivors, offering safe spaces, support services, and a framework for holistic healing and empowerment.

Betty Okero from the Civil Society Organizations (CSO) Network advocated for more structured support for gender activities, calling for the development of terms of reference for the Directorate of Gender, which would clearly define its roles and responsibilities within the implementation framework.