GAZETTE NOTICE NO. 2854

PURSUANT to Sections 36 and 46 of the County Governments Act, 2012, the functions of the County Executive Committee, in respect to performance of its functions inter alia, is to determine its program and activities. The County Executive Committee Member for Gender, Youth, Sports, and Social Services has formulated this policy on gender-based violence whose aim is to provide a framework for the prevention, response, and elimination of Gender-Based Violence in Kilifi County. INTRODUCTION In line with the provisions of the County Governments Act, 2012, the County Government of Kilifi has developed the Kilifi County Anti-Gender Based Violence (GBV) Policy 2024-2028. The Policy provides a comprehensive framework for the prevention, response, and elimination of Gender-Based Violence in Kilifi County. The Policy is a framework for addressing the multifaceted challenges of GBV within the county. It aims to create a society where all individuals, particularly the most vulnerable, can live free from the threat of violence. The policy is built on six pillars: Legal and Policy Framework, Prevention and Awareness, Support for Victims, Capacity Building and Coordination, Economic Empowerment, and Research and Data Collection which provide a roadmap for achieving a safer and more equitable society. 7th March, 2025 THE KENYA GAZETTE BACKGROUND GBV in Kilifi County is a multifaceted challenge, significantly impacting individuals and hindering socio-economic development. High rates of physical and sexual violence, harmful cultural practices such as child marriage and incest, and increased vulnerability for special interest groups like the elderly and persons with disabilities are prevalent issues. Despite existing measures, gaps persist in prevention, response, and recovery mechanisms. Protection and access to justice are limited, with weak enforcement and low community trust. Emerging trends, like climate change, further exacerbate GBV risks. Data collection and policy implementation also face challenges, hindering effective response. SCOPE AND RATIONALE The County recognizes the urgent need to address the pervasive and detrimental effects of GBV limiting the overall socio-economic development of the county. The causes and generational perpetuation of GBV necessitate sustained intervention. The Policy provides a framework for prioritizing evidence-based and accountable interventions. It integrates the efforts of various state and non-state actors to accelerate the total elimination of GBV. This policy guides all future decisions and processes in Kilifi County to effectively address GBV across all sectors and regions, prioritizing vulnerable and special interest groups. By integrating GBV considerations into programs and services of sectors, the policy strives to create a safer and more equitable County through a coordinated, well-resourced, and evidence-based approach. POLICY AND LEGAL CONTEXT The policy is anchored in the Constitution of Kenya (2010), which enshrines the right to equality and freedom from discrimination. National legislation, including the Sexual Offences Act (2006), Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (2015), Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011), and the Children Act (2022), criminalizes various forms of GBV and provides protection and support services for victims. The National Policy for Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence (2014) outlines the agenda for gender equality and guides the integration of GBV prevention into national and county-level policies and programs. At the County level, the Kilifi County Integrated Development Plan (CIDP) 2023-2027 integrates GBV prevention and response into the County's overall development strategy. POLICY VISION A County free from all forms of gender-based violence, where every individual enjoys equal rights, dignity, and opportunities in a safe and supportive environment. POLICY MISSION To accelerate efforts towards the elimination of gender-based violence in Kilifi County by enhancing legal frameworks, promoting gender equality, providing comprehensive victim-centred support services and engaging communities to prevent violence. POLICY OBJECTIVES (i) Strengthen and enforce legal frameworks towards GBV prevention and response. (ii) Strengthen awareness of gender-based violence and promote gender equality. (iii) Enhance access to quality and comprehensive support services across sectors. (iv) Facilitate a co-ordinated approach in addressing GBV and to ensure effective programming. (v) Promote economic empowerment programs for special interest groups, women, and persons with disabilities to reduce dependency and vulnerability to gender-based violence. (vi) Establish a data management system to track GBV cases and inform evidence-based policies and interventions. POLICY GUIDING PRINCIPLES The Policy is grounded in principles that prioritize equality, ensuring all individuals are treated with respect and have equal access to services and justice, regardless of their background. The policy champions a victim-centered approach, where the safety and well- being of survivors are paramount in all interventions. Recognizing the importance of community ownership, the policy emphasizes community involvement in every stage of GBV program development and implementation. To ensure transparency and build trust, the policy advocates for open communication and regular sharing of information about GBV initiatives and their impact. The policy is committed to evidence-based practices, using data and research to inform interventions and adapt them to the specific needs of affected populations. To provide comprehensive support and coordinated prevention strategies, the policy stresses the importance of multi- sectoral collaboration, bringing together health, justice, education, and social services. Finally, the policy is committed to sustainability, ensuring long-term strategies and resource allocation for continued effectiveness in preventing and responding to GBV. STRATEGIC PILLARS The Policy is built on strategic pillars which are underpinned by actionable policy commitments, demonstrating Kilifi County's dedication to establishing robust systems for GBV prevention, victim support, legal protection, capacity building, and economic empowerment. Pillar 1: Legal and Policy Framework Strategic Area Policy Commitments Strengthening Laws Advocate for the enforcement of existing GBV laws and the creation of new GBV policies Review and update current legislation to address emerging GBV issues and gaps in protection. Access to Justice Provide affordable legal assistance to GBV victims. Enhance the capacity of respective duty bearers to handle GBV cases with sensitivity and efficiency. Policy Integration Enhance Gender Mainstreaming into all relevant county policies and development plans. Pillar 2: Prevention and Awareness Strategic Area Policy Commitments Public Education Campaigns Enhance public awareness of GBV, its impacts, and prevention strategies. School-Based Programs Advocate for integration of GBV education into school curricula. Enhance the capacity of teachers and school counselors on GBV issues Community Engagement Partner with community leaders, religious institutions, and grassroots organizations to promote GBV prevention and support victims. Targeting Vulnerable Populations Ensure vulnerable populations have equitable access to GBV information, services, and support Pillar 3: Support- Services for Victim Strategic Area Policy Commitments Health Services Strengthen health facilities to provide comprehensive care and other necessary medical interventions. Establish and equip specialized GBV response units to offer immediate and confidential care to victims. Shelters and Safe Houses Establish and maintain safe houses and shelters for victims. Develop and disseminate guidelines and protocols for the operation and management of shelters. Counseling and Rehabilitation Support counseling and rehabilitation programs for GBV victims. THE KENYA GAZETTE 7th March, 2025 Pillar 4: Capacity Building and Co-ordination Strategic Area Policy Commitments Training Programs Enhance the capacity of respective duty bearers on GBV prevention and response. Inter-Agency Collaboration Enhance GBV multisectoral coordination mechanisms. Resource Allocation Enhance GBV resource mobilization, allocation and utilization. Pillar 5: Economic Empowerment Strategic Area Policy Commitments Skills Training Support special interest groups with life skills training Microfinance Programs Support microfinance initiatives for special interest groups. Employment Initiatives Collaborate with the private sector and other stakeholders to create sustainable job opportunities for special interest groups. Implement job placement and internship programs to special interest groups. Pillar 6: Research and Data Collection Strategic Area Policy Commitments Data Management Systems Establish a County GBV Data Management System. Surveys and Studies Support surveys, studies, and research on GBV Evidence-Based Policy Making Use data and research findings to inform and adapt policies and programs. Establish indicators to measure the impact and effectiveness of GBV interventions. POLICY IMPLEMENTATION ROADMAP The implementation of the Kilifi County Anti-GBV Policy will be rolled out in three phases: (a) Planning and Capacity Building: This phase focuses on assessing the current situation, training key stakeholders, and establishing necessary infrastructure. (b) Implementation and Monitoring: This phase involves implementing the programs outlined in the policy, monitoring their progress, and collecting data to ensure effectiveness. (c) Evaluation and Scaling Up: This phase focuses on evaluating the impact of interventions, scaling up successful programs, and continuously reviewing and updating the policy. MANAGEMENT AND CO-ORDINATION County GBV Coordination Committee (CGCC) Role: Oversee and coordinate the overall implementation, monitoring and resource allocation of the Anti-GBV policy Meeting Schedule: Quarterly Composition: Representatives from the County Government, law enforcement, healthcare providers, law society, civil society and community leaders. Functions: • Ensure policy alignment with County and National GBV laws and frameworks. • Co-ordinate resource mobilization for GBV interventions. • Monitor and evaluate GBV programs. • Report to the County Gender Sector Working Group County GBV Technical Working Group (TWG) Role: Offer expertise and advisory support to the CGCC and Sub- County GBV Network. Meeting Schedule: Bi-Annually Composition: GBV experts from various fields including healthcare, law, social work and specialized GBV response units. Functions: • Provide technical guidance and advisory support for GBV prevention and response programs. • Ensure coordinated service delivery for GBV victims, including medical, psychological, and legal support services. • Support the CGCC in evaluating program outcomes and offering recommendations for policy improvements and future interventions. Sub-County GBV Networks (SCGN) Role: Implement and coordinate GBV interventions at the sub- county level, providing localized support and services tailored to specific community needs. Meeting Schedule: Monthly. Composition: Representatives from sub-county administration, local law enforcement, healthcare professionals, community leaders, and civil society organizations. Functions: • Adapt and execute county-wide GBV programs to address sub- county-specific challenges and needs. • Facilitate collaboration between service providers and local authorities to ensure victims have timely access to essential services. • Monitor and report on GBV trends and the effectiveness of service delivery at the sub-county level. • Report to the County GBV Co-ordination Committee Community GBV Action Committees (CGAC) Role: Serve as grassroots-level focal points for GBV Meeting Schedule: Ad-hoc, based on need or during regular community gatherings. Composition: Community health promoters and community gatekeepers. Functions: • Raise awareness on GBV prevention and response. • Act as first responders to GBV cases, offering immediate support and referrals to essential services • Foster community-driven initiatives to challenge harmful traditional practices and prevent GBV • Report to the Sub-County GBV Networks The County will implement several coordination mechanisms to ensure a coordinated and effective response to GBV. These mechanisms include regular joint meetings and information-sharing platforms to facilitate inter-sectoral collaboration. Formal partnerships and coordination meetings with PBOs and CBOs will leverage their expertise and resources. A resource mobilization strategy will be developed to secure funding and technical support from various sources. POLICY REVIEW This policy will be reviewed and updated periodically in consultation with various stakeholders. The frequency of review will be determined by the County Government of Kilifi, considering factors such as the prevalence of GBV, the effectiveness of interventions, and emerging trends. A periodic review will be conducted to evaluate progress and make necessary course corrections. A final evaluation will be conducted at the end of the policy period to measure the overall impact and sustainability of interventions. EFFECTIVE DATE This policy shall come into operation on the date of its publication in the Kenya Gazette. 7th March, 2025 THE KENYA GAZETTE GAZETTE PUBLIC ACCESS The full policy document can be accessed at County Government Offices. CALL TO ACTION The County Government of Kilifi calls upon all stakeholders, including government agencies, civil society organizations, community leaders, and the private sector, to join hands in the implementation of this Policy to ensure a Kilifi County free from Gender-Based Violence. Dated the 5th March, 2025. RUTH DAMA MASHA, (DR.) MR/6155437 CECM for Gender, Youth, Sports, and Social Services.