By Treezer Michelle Atieno
Busia County, located in Kenya's border region, is facing a dire situation with rising
cases of gender-based violence (GBV) and teenage pregnancies. The county has
been identified as a hotspot for GBV and child molestation, largely due to its
strategic location and the significant cross-border movement in the area.
This has contributed to an alarming increase in these issues, with many vulnerable
individuals, particularly women and children, bearing the brunt of this crisis.
In response to this growing concern, Busia County has recently signed a
Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Collaborative Centre for Gender for
Development (CCGB), a prominent social organisation dedicated to addressing
gender-related issues.
This MoU marks a significant step towards tackling GBV and teenage pregnancy in
the region through a coordinated and multi-stakeholder approach.
Governor Paul Otuoma emphasised the severity of the situation. He highlighted that
Busia has been grappling with high rates of GBV and teenage pregnancies, which
have been exacerbated by its border location and the resultant influx of visitors.
The governor stressed the need for urgent action to address these challenges
effectively.
The MoU outlines several key initiatives aimed at combating GBV and teenage
pregnancy. A major component of the agreement is the fast-tracking of the gender
and development policy through the county assembly.
This policy is designed to tackle issues such as unpaid care work, GBV, and access
to gender-responsive financial services for young women. By expediting the policy's
approval and implementation, the county aims to create a more robust framework
for addressing these issues.
Additionally, the MoU includes commitments to establish rescue and rehabilitation
centres. Governor Otuoma announced that the county will provide land for the
construction of these facilities, including expanding the existing recovery centre at
Busia County General Hospital.
These centres are expected to offer both immediate support and long-term
rehabilitation for victims of GBV and teenage pregnancies.
CCGB Executive Director Masheti Masinjila expressed optimism about the project,
stating that the organisation plans to work with 1,000 women over the next two
years, focusing on those aged 18 to 46.
The initiative also aims to expand the Busia Children Child Care Centre, increasing
its capacity from 300 to 600, to better support the children of women involved in
cross-border trade.
With child neglect cases now reported at 59%, and Busia town emerging as a
hotspot for street children, this collaborative effort represents a crucial investment
in creating a safer and more supportive environment for the county’s vulnerable
populations.
