Over 50 GBV cases reported in Thika slum monthly

Lobbies and medics have raised concern over the rising number of gender-based violence cases in Kiandutu slums in Thika, Kiambu county.

They say more than 50 cases of sodomy, rape and physical assault are reported monthly.

Peter Muchunu, a medic at the Kiandutu Level 2 Hospital, said they receive a minimum of 20 cases every month, with 30 others recorded at the police helplines.

He said majority of the cases are defilement, with some being so severe and have to be referred to Thika Level 5 Hospital.

Muchunu said the cases might be more since most of them go unreported. “Most cases, especially those involving sodomy and defilement go unreported due to fear. The victims fear repercussions from perpetrators,” he said.

Because of the high numbers, Kenya Counseling and Psychological Association, the police, Judiciary and other community-based organisations have come up with comprehensive initiatives aimed at addressing the crisis.

KCPA Thika chairperson Susan Gitau said the initiative focuses on providing immediate psychological treatment and long-term counseling for survivors and addressing emotional and mental trauma caused by GBV.

“It’s crucial that we offer not just legal and medical support, but also psychological care that victims need to heal,” she said.

Gitau said while women and girls remain the most visible victims of GBV, men and boys are increasingly experiencing violence as well.

“Some of the cases men are experiencing are more of emotional and psychological abuse, while for boys; sexual abuse such as sodomy is on the rise,” she said.

“Most victims are traumatised and the behavioral outcome of a traumatised community is anger, which makes the victim abusive. So the cycle continues.”

KCPA plans to conduct workshops and sessions aimed at educating the public on the various forms of gender-based violence, its impact on individuals and communities.

The organisation will also offer free counseling services for victims of gender-based violence.

These services will be available to survivors and anyone impacted by the trauma of GBV, providing them with a confidential space to process their experiences.