The National Police Service has initiated comprehensive strategies to address sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in the lead-up to the August 9 General Election, emphasizing preparedness before, during, and after the polls.
Rift Valley Regional Police Commander Tom Mboya Odero confirmed that Inspector General of Police Hillary Mutyambai authorized senior officers to develop operational plans for the election period. Odero highlighted SGBV as a critical focus area during a ceremony marking the handover of the Nanyuki Policare Centre.
"We are finalizing operational plans under the IG's guidance to mitigate SGBV risks," Odero stated. The service has deployed 62 trained officers across the region to handle SGBV cases, with plans to collaborate with stakeholders on civic education to ensure public engagement with the new facility.
The Nanyuki centre, funded with Sh9 million through partnerships including the British Army Training Unit in Kenya and the UK’s Reinvent programme, will house forensic experts, legal professionals, and health providers. Assistant Inspector General Judy Lamet noted that 78% of SGBV victims in the 2017 election did not report incidents, framing Policare as a critical trust-building initiative.
IG Mutyambai emphasized the centre’s role in complementing existing structures, while Odero acknowledged the impact of government-provided counsellors and social workers in regional efforts to support survivors.
