Leaders decry increasing cases of GBV in Siaya as wellness center is opened

The leaders regretted that matters of GBV have, for a long time, been taken for granted yet it is a serious issue that has ruined many lives. [iStockphoto]

A section of leaders in Siaya County have raised concern over rampant cases of Gender-Based Violence in the county.

Led by ODM party leader Raila Odinga's wife Ida Odinga, the leaders regretted that matters of GBV have, for a long time, been taken for granted yet it is a serious issue that has ruined many lives.

"The biggest problem in the fight against GBV is ignorance because the majority of the survivors often don't know the channels to follow in pursuing justice," said Mrs Odinga.

She made the remarks at Bondo sub-county hospital during the official opening of a youth wellness centre that has been established courtesy of Mild-may Kenya, a non-governmental organisation to help in addressing issues of GBV, teenage pregnancies and child marriages among others.

Bondo Deputy County Commissioner Julius Otieno said GBV is one of the major impediments to development in the region. He said that Bondo sub-county has been facing so many challenges on matters of GBV and teenage pregnancies.