Baringo: Media practitioners from Baringo County have been trained on effective and strategic Gender-Based Violence (GBV) reporting. The one-day sensitization forum, organized by the Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) under the ‘Accelerate program’ and funded by the Embassy of Denmark, attracted local journalists, officers from both national and county government, as well as bloggers.

According to Kenya News Agency, GVRC Programs Manager Joel Muriithi stated the organization’s intention to build the capacity of media practitioners to decrease the prevalence of GBV and its harmful effects. Muriithi emphasized the importance of prioritizing the safety and best interest of survivors when reporting on sexual and other forms of gender-based violence within the society. He highlighted the critical need for an appropriate response to GBV survivors and colleagues who have experienced violence.

The official attributed GBV cases in Baringo to cultural practices, poverty, and low education, calling for concerted efforts from all stakeholders to address the challenge. Muriithi also revealed that his organization advocates for free services at the Baringo County Referral Hospital and identified Sunrise Children’s Home in Kabarnet town as a shelter for survivors of GBV within the county.

Baringo County Director of Youth Affairs and Gender, Daudi Aengwo, who presided over the training, highlighted a rise in FGM cases in the region, focusing on Tiaty constituency, Mukutani, Illchamus, and Mochongoi Wards in Baringo South, as well as parts of Mogotio and Barwessa and Bartabwa Wards in Baringo North, where the practice is rampant. Aengwo also noted a worrying trend of defilement cases in Bartabwa and Barwessa Wards in Baringo North, with a high number reported among school-going children, urging parents and guardians to closely monitor their children and encouraging media collaboration with other stakeholders for advocacy.

Kipngeno Ronoh, a journalist, commended the organizers for the timely engagement, especially in a county where many face experiences requiring psychosocial support. Ronoh requested that religious leaders be included in future trainings due to their crucial role in advising the community. Emmanuel Bett echoed Ronoh’s sentiments and suggested that information tips about GBV be displayed in barbershops and salons to raise awareness among residents.