A Barrier to Development
Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Violence Against Women and Girls (VAWG) have long been significant concerns in Kenya, posing serious threats to societal progress. These issues disproportionately affect women and girls, denying them the opportunity to fully realise their potential and achieve their dreams. According to data from the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS) in 2022, 34% of adult women have experienced violence at some point in their lives—a harrowing statistic that underscores the risks to women’s safety and security.
The roots of this pervasive issue lie in retrogressive cultural and religious beliefs that normalise violence against women, compounded by the lack of prioritization of gender as a central component of development by key institutions, including government bodies. While some counties have made attempts to address gender-related challenges, these efforts have often been ad hoc, lacking the structured approaches necessary for sustainable change.
Building a Policy Framework
Recognising this gap, the Jamii Thabiti programme, which preceded the ongoing REINVENT programme, developed a prototype gender bill in 2016. This initiative aimed to encourage counties to adopt structured approaches that prioritize gender in their development agendas. Counties such as Bungoma, Mombasa, Kisumu, Kilifi, Wajir, Nakuru, Mandera, Baringo, and Kwale were among the first to engage with this initiative, with Jamii Thabiti laying the groundwork for significant gender-focused reforms.
When Jamii Thabiti transitioned into the REINVENT programme, these efforts were sustained and deepened. Through partnerships, REINVENT supported counties and regional economic blocs in integrating gender considerations into their development priorities. Bungoma County, which has one of the highest GBV/VAWG prevalence rates—62%, according to the latest data—became a focal point for intervention.
Bungoma County’s Gender Mainstreaming Policy
In December 2024, Bungoma County achieved a significant milestone by launching its inaugural Gender Mainstreaming Policy, a culmination of years of advocacy and support from REINVENT and its predecessor. Drawing from the prototype developed by Jamii Thabiti, this policy represents a structured and coordinated approach to addressing gender concerns in the county.
This milestone is particularly significant given Bungoma’s high prevalence of GBV/VAWG. The policy promises to create a comprehensive framework for addressing gender issues, ensuring that gender becomes a critical component of the county’s development agenda. Bungoma’s leadership is further strengthened by the election of a female deputy governor, positioning the county as a trailblazer for gender inclusion and affirmative action.
At the policy launch, Governor Ken Lusaka emphasised the county’s commitment:
“We want to have a framework in place to address issues of inclusion and affirmative action, and we will ensure clear frameworks for implementation are put in place to ensure the policies are executed fully.”
Beyond promoting gender inclusion, this policy provides a structured framework to tackle GBV/ VAWG by ensuring preventive measures, survivor support, and accountability mechanisms are embedded in the county’s governance. With this, Bungoma is shifting from reactive responses to a long-term, systemic approach to ending GBV/VAWG.
A Future of Hope and Safety
The Gender Mainstreaming Policy marks a significant step in the fight against GBV/VAWG in Bungoma. It sets the stage for prioritizing gender in a structured and coordinated manner, reigniting hope for reducing GBV prevalence rates and ensuring the safety and security of women and girls. By fostering an environment where women and girls can thrive, the policy lays the groundwork for a brighter future.
“We are honored to be part of this journey. It is indeed an excellent step by the county government of Bungoma demonstrating a commitment to addressing gender issue in the county. We are assured that going forward resources will be allocated to ensure the policy is implemented. REINVENT and other partners remain committed to support gender equality, women’s empowerment and tackling GBV. We are honored to be part of this journey.” Jacinta Makokha, REINVENT Gender Lead
The impact of this policy is amplified by Bungoma’s broader commitment to gender equality. As one of the eight counties in Kenya to elect a female deputy governor, Bungoma is poised to lead by example, demonstrating the transformative power of inclusive governance.
Sustaining Progress
The adoption of the Gender Mainstreaming Policy is just the beginning. To ensure lasting change, Bungoma County must implement the policy effectively, with robust mechanisms for monitoring and accountability. The continued support of REINVENT and its partners will be vital in helping the county translate this milestone into tangible improvements in the lives of women and girls. Bungoma’s success serves as an inspiring model for other counties, underscoring the importance of structured approaches in combating GBV/VAWG and advancing gender equality in Kenya.