Kakamega County Sexual & Gender Based Violence Policy 2020-2030

Abstract

Sexual and Gender based Violence (SGBV) refers to any act of violence that is perpetrated towards persons against their will and is based on gender norms and unequal power relationships (UNHCR, 2003). It encompasses threats of violence and coercion which can be physical, emotional, psychological, or sexual in nature, and can take the form of a denial of resources or access to services. It’s harmful to women, girls, men and boys. The inclusion of the fight against SGBV among the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) is informed by the need for concerted international effort in fighting this global problem. SDG number 5 aims to achieve gender equality, empower all women and girls and specifically targets to eliminate all forms of violence against women and girls in the public and private spheres. It also aims at eliminating child trafficking, sexual and other types of exploitation, all harmful practices such as early and forced marriage and female genital mutilation (WHO Report, 2015). According to the World Report on Violence and Health: Violence by intimate Partner, World Health Organization, 2002 women are disproportionately affected by GBV.