Embu, Kenya — Religious authorities under the National Council of Churches of Kenya (NCCK) in Embu have voiced concerns over increasing incidents of Gender-Based Violence (GBV), teenage pregnancies, and Female Genital Mutilation (FGM). They have vowed to lead a community-wide initiative to combat these issues, focusing particularly on vulnerable groups including children and People with Disability (PWD).

According to the Kenya News Agency, NCCK Embu Chapter Bishop Silvanus Nyaga said the urgency of these issues can no longer be ignored. “As religious leaders, we have decided to raise the alarm and also strengthen our engagement in anti-violence messaging,” said Nyaga. The announcement was made during an engagement forum at ACK St. Paul Cathedral Hall in Embu Town on Wednesday.

Bishop Silvanus revealed plans to be proactive in spreading awareness and advocacy, particularly targeting children, teenagers, and youth. They intend to engage these groups in conversations about proper sexual conduct as a measure to prevent them from becoming either victims or perpetrators of these crimes.

Vimal Chadha, the Hindu Council of Kenya Representative in the Mt. Kenya Region, appealed to the national and county governments of Embu to maintain their leadership role in a multi-sectoral approach to combat GBV. Chadha also urged the Embu County Gender Sector Working Group to expedite the completion of a referral directory to aid survivors in accessing essential services.

In addition, Sheikh Ramadhan Njuguna, an official from the Embu Supreme Council of Kenya Muslims (SUPKEM), called upon the judiciary to ensure severe penalties for perpetrators as a deterrent. He also stressed the need for prompt action by security agencies and healthcare facilities in handling GBV cases to ensure justice for victims.