The YWCA of Meru hosted a regional FEMSpaces Reflection Workshop in Meru County in July, bringing together key stakeholders to tackle the urgent issue of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and to reflect on the impact of FEMSpaces in empowering women and advocating for their rights.
This workshop, a critical event for the Young Women for Awareness, Agency, Advocacy, and Accountability (YW4A) programme, served as a platform for deepening the conversation on GBV, highlighting the gaps in the current response, and pushing for actionable solutions.
A Resounding Call to Action to Bridge the Gaps in SGBV Response in Meru County
The gathering culminated in a powerful call to action, emphasising the need for the Meru County Government to fully implement the Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) policy.
Participants underscored the importance of operationalising safe houses for gender-based violence (GBV) survivors, ensuring these spaces are fully equipped and staffed, and establishing a dedicated GBV fund to provide survivors with essential services, including access to pro bono legal support. Despite establishing a safe house in 2022, it remains non-operational, highlighting the gap between policy and practice. The participants called for immediate action to ensure survivors access safe spaces and the necessary resources to rebuild their lives. they stressed the importance of equipping these safe houses with trained personnel and creating a dedicated GBV fund to provide survivors with essential services, including pro bono legal support.
The urgency of this call to action was reinforced by troubling statistics shared by Ms. Judy Kawira, the County GBV Coordinator, who reported a significant increase in cases of defilement, sexual violence, rape, and child marriage between 2019 and 2023. The low reporting rates, particularly among persons with disabilities (PWDs), underscored the critical need for more robust support systems and outreach efforts.
One particularly concerning trend is the rise in incest cases within the county. Judy noted that six girls had been rescued from such situations recently, underlining the pervasive nature of these violations and the need for vigilant community and institutional responses.
FEMSpaces as a Catalyst for Change
At the heart of the workshop was the influential role of FEMSpaces, an initiative that has been instrumental in empowering women and young girls across Meru County.
Through FEMSpaces, many young women have gained the confidence to speak out against GBV, engage in advocacy, and hold local authorities accountable. The initiative has also been instrumental in educating the community about the importance of reporting GBV cases and seeking timely medical and psychological support.
The influence of FEMSpaces has also extended to local policy discussions, with participants advocating for the inclusion of gender-sensitive policies at the county level. The workshop highlighted how these spaces have been a driving force behind the push to operationalise safe houses and establish a GBV fund. Their efforts have raised awareness of the barriers women face and the systemic changes needed to address these challenges.
Government Officials’ Commitment to Action
The workshop featured significant contributions from government officials, who expressed their commitment to addressing GBV in Meru County.
Ms. Winfred Kagweria, the Director of Gender, emphasised the critical role of economic empowerment in preventing GBV. She highlighted various government programmes available to women and youth, such as Affirmative Funds, the Youth Enterprise Fund, and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund. Kagweria urged participants to take advantage of these resources to build economic independence, which is crucial in reducing vulnerability to GBV. She also stressed the importance of expanding membership in the YWCA movement to strengthen grassroots advocacy efforts.
The Deputy County Commissioner, Ms. Odiliah Ndeti delivered a powerful message, encouraging the young women to become ambassadors against SGBV. She pointed out the disturbing rise in incest and family-related violence in Meru and called on the community to take a stand by speaking out and supporting survivors. “I was created by God, and God does not create junk,” she stated, urging the attendees to recognise their inherent worth and protect their rights.
Hon. Caleb Mutethia, the Municipality Ward MCA and Chairperson of the Finance Committee at the Meru County Assembly, focused his address on the importance of dreams and aspirations in shaping one’s future. He urged young women to pursue their goals with determination and to not be deterred by societal limitations. He acknowledged the challenges faced by women in accessing leadership positions and called for a more supportive environment that allows women to thrive.
Conclusion: A Unified Approach to Combating GBV
The FEMSpace Reflections Workshop in Meru County highlighted both the challenges and the progress being made in the fight against GBV. The event served as a crucial reminder of the work that remains to be done, particularly in the areas of policy implementation and support for survivors.
However, it also showcased the power of collective action, with FEMSpaces leading the charge in empowering women and amplifying their voices.
As Meru County moves forward, the collaboration between government officials, FEMSpaces, and the broader community will be essential for success in fighting GBV in the county. The workshop’s call to action serves as a roadmap for the future, one that prioritises the needs of survivors, enforces accountability and continues to empower the women and girls of Meru.
