NAIROBI – In a significant move to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Nandi County, Deputy Governor Dr. Yulitta Mitei inaugurated a new gender facility at the Nandi East Sub County Police headquarters on Wednesday. The office, established by Eastern Produce Kenya (EPK) Tea Company as part of its community outreach, is set to provide residents with easier access to services related to SGBV, marking a step forward in the local fight against such violence.

According to Kenya News Agency, the lack of specialized offices and sensitized officers has led to underreporting of SGBV cases in the region. She expressed hope that the new facility would reduce violence against girls, women, and boys, noting that Nandi East is among the sub-counties in Nandi reporting high numbers of such incidents.

This initiative aligns with the ongoing 16 days of activism against GBV, an international campaign that starts on November 25th, the international day for the elimination of violence against women and girls, and continues until December 10, Human Rights Day. EPK commemorated the campaign with a procession in Nandi Hills town, culminating at the newly established gender facility.

Mitei commended EPK Tea Company for its proactive role in addressing SGBV and called on other multinational tea companies to emulate this community-focused approach. “The establishment of this facility signifies a collective commitment to raising our voices against SGBV,” Mitei stated during the event.

Leonard Mgute, the Nandi East Sub County Deputy County Commissioner, emphasized the importance of the facility in strengthening partnerships and ensuring effective GBV case management. He praised EPK for its ongoing support to the community and noted that the office would offer a safe and inclusive space for all genders seeking assistance.

EPK General Manager Leah Kipchirchir highlighted the facility’s role in providing a platform for all victims of violence to receive dignified support and counseling. “Our goal is to bridge the gap in police services addressing gender issues effectively,” Kipchirchir remarked.

Sub-county Police Commander Francis Omulo expressed gratitude to EPK for equipping the office, making it fully operational for 24-hour service. “This office is crucial as it deals with a range of cases from children to adults and those suffering psychological trauma,” Omulo said, acknowledging the increasing incidence of violence in society.

The new gender office is expected to address various forms of GBV prevalent in modern society, including domestic violence, sexual abuse, and female genital mutilation.