Kwale County government is looking forward to having the Child Protection, Gender and Social Inclusion policies ready by mid this year.
Speaking during the review of the two policies, County Attorney Salim Gombeni said the county, in partnership with various stakeholders, has made great progress in actualizing the policies.
Gombeni said the policies are crucial in combating gender-based violence and child exploitation since they provide a proper legal framework for key stakeholders to work on.
“Last year, we passed the Kwale County SGBV Protection Act, and currently, we are preparing these policies to back its implementation,” he said.
Youth for a Sustainable World (YSW) through the Connect A Girl project and other partners have supported the workshop to consolidate the views collected from public participation into the draft policies.
Gombeni said that the policies would soon be forwarded to the County Executive Committee Board for review before being presented to the County Assembly for consideration and approval.
He said that the policies are crucial in shaping a more inclusive and equitable society, ensuring that vulnerable groups receive the protection and support they deserve.
He further explained that once the policies are enacted, the county government will be better positioned to address gender-related challenges effectively.
He also noted that the policies will serve as a framework for fostering social and economic development while upholding human rights principles.
County Attorney Salim Gombeni during the gender mainstreaming policy review at Pride Inn Hotel in Kwale County on Friday, January 31, 2025.
Gombeni said that the county government remains committed to strengthening child protection mechanisms by implementing strict measures and collaborating with relevant stakeholders.
The Department of Gender County Officer, Nelly Amoite, commended the progress made so far in drafting the two policies.
She acknowledged the collaborative efforts involved in formulating the policies, noting that they represent a crucial step toward creating a more inclusive and supportive society.
Amoite said that once enacted, the policies would accelerate the establishment of gender desks and rescue centers across the county.
She said facilities will play a vital role in supporting survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) by providing them with a safe space, legal assistance, counseling services, and medical care.
Amoite said that having well-equipped and accessible support systems will not only aid victims in seeking justice but also contribute to reducing cases of GBV through increased awareness and swift interventions.
She said as stakeholders the county aims to create a safer environment where gender equality is upheld, and individuals, especially women and children, are protected from all forms of abuse and discrimination.
Amoite expressed optimism that with the right resources and sustained commitment, the policies would bring lasting change, empowering communities to stand against gender-based violence and fostering a culture of respect, dignity, and equality for all.
YSW Program and Advocacy Coordinator, Philis Wabwire said that the policies would play a crucial role in securing adequate funding to support gender-related initiatives.
She noted that with clear policy guidelines in place, resource allocation would be more structured, ensuring that gender programs receive the necessary financial support for effective implementation.
Wabwire said that the initiative is vital, as the policies will serve as a strategic tool for coordinating gender response mechanisms and programs.
“By providing a clear framework, the policies will enhance the efficiency of interventions aimed at addressing gender inequalities, protecting vulnerable groups, and promoting social justice,” she said.
She stressed that streamlining the efforts would improve service delivery, ensuring that survivors of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and victims of child exploitation receive timely and adequate support.
Additionally, she pointed out that the policies would strengthen accountability among county authorities and development partners.
YSW Project Officer, Tatu Mjaka, said that the gender mainstreaming policy has been carefully drafted to reflect the voices and the needs of the kwale community. praised the policies, noting that they have been carefully drafted to reflect the voices and needs of the communities.
She said that extensive consultations were conducted to ensure the policies address real challenges faced by the people, making them more inclusive and impactful.
Mjaka said that one of the most important aspects of this policy development process was the active involvement of the public, particularly adolescents, girls.
She noted that the group, often among the most vulnerable in society, had the opportunity to contribute their perspectives, ensuring their concerns and aspirations were well represented in the policy document.
Mjaka said by incorporating their views, the policies are not only more relevant but also more effective in promoting gender equality.
She further explained that giving a voice to young people and marginalized groups fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility in implementing the policies.
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