KENYA, Kenya Dec 13 – Nandi County-based tea producer, Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK), has taken a significant step in the fight against gender-based violence (GBV) in the South Rift region by investing Kshs 2.3 million in a purpose-built community facility.
This facility, located at the Nandi East Sub County Police headquarters, is dedicated to providing services related to Sexual and Gender-Based Violence. It will house regional gender awareness offices, thereby enhancing security and the response of relevant stakeholders to reports of SGBV distress.
As part of the events marking this year’s 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence, EPK Director Leah Kibii Chirchir emphasized that the new facility would offer community services for managing SGBV and strengthen community policing efforts. The goal of this upgrade, she explained, is to establish a comprehensive and well-functioning SGBV desk, ensuring a safe, caring environment that respects the confidentiality of SGBV victims.
Chirchir emphasized EPK’s commitment to supporting the fight against gender-based violence beyond prosecution. The facility will provide crucial psychosocial support and counseling services. EPK aims to improve SGBV prevention and response.
Through EPK’s support, the facility now features improved office furniture, creating a conducive work environment for officers and a comfortable, confidential space for victims and visitors. The facility is also equipped with Information Technology systems for data storage, management, tracking of reported cases, and communication with external stakeholders.
This initiative aligns with the global theme of the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-based Violence in 2023: “UNITE! Invest to prevent violence against women and girls.” Violence against women and girls disrupts peace and stability in families and communities, incurring significant costs to societies in healthcare, education, social protection, justice, and productivity. Investment in prevention is a key solution.
During the event, Nandi County Deputy Governor Dr. Yulita Mitei, who presided over the facility’s commissioning, expressed her optimism that the new gender facility would reduce violence against women, girls, and boys. She commended EPK Limited for championing the fight against SGBV and urged other multinational tea companies to follow suit through community investment initiatives.
Sub-county police commander Francis Omulo praised EPK for their support in equipping the office, making it fully functional. The office will operate 24 hours, addressing a range of GBV issues, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and female genital mutilation.
Nandi East Sub County Deputy County Commissioner (DCC) Leonard Mgute recognized the facility’s potential to strengthen partnerships and linkages for effective GBV case management and enforcement. He called on church leaders to lead efforts in sensitizing people to avoid violence and praying for the community, especially young couples, who are most affected by domestic violence.
