Murang’a—In response to the increasing reports of Gender Based Violence (GBV) in the area, Premier Peak Foundation has opened a Safe House in Kangema Sub-County. The shelter, named Premier Hope Centre, is designed to house up to 30 women at a time and aims to offer a range of services from social to psychological support for victims.

According to a new release by Kenya News Agency, the Chief Executive Officer of Premier Peak Foundation, the necessity of the Centre became apparent due to the rising number of GBV cases in Murang’a County. The Centre was commissioned on Monday and has partnered with Women’s Hope, led by Consolata Waithaka, to provide a comprehensive support system for victims. Last year’s Kenya Demographic and Health Survey by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) revealed that 54% of women in Murang’a under the age of 49 have experienced physical violence, significantly higher than the national prevalence of 34%.

In addition to immediate relief, the Centre aims to empower its residents economically. “Victims of GBV admitted to the centre will be trained in various income-generating activities such as farming dry-land arrowroots and basket making to help them achieve financial independence,” Chege said. Prior to admission to the facility, victims are advised to obtain medical and police reports.

Furthermore, the Foundation plans to conduct sensitization forums to educate women about abuse and provide information on how to seek help. Waithaka, who attended the commissioning ceremony, noted that GBV has been normalized in homes and has often led to depression or even suicide among victims. She called on both National and County governments to consider partnering with private rescue centres to broaden their reach.

Murang’a ACK Bishop Timothy Gichere, who blessed the Centre, called upon the church to engage in preventive measures, specifically counselling services for both genders, to foster stable households. Kangema resident Virginia Wanjiru pointed out that alcoholism and the struggles of daily life contribute to domestic conflicts. “We hope this centre will help those who have been held in abusive marriages,” Wanjiru said.