Kilifi County launches national shelter program to combat Gender-Based Violence

In response to this crisis, the Accelerate National Shelter Program was officially launched in Kilifi, marking a significant step in the protection and support of GBV survivors.

Kilifi County Deputy Governor Florence Mbetsa underscored the shelter's importance stating: "Kilifi County recognizes the severe impact of gender-based violence on our community, and we are taking bold steps to change this reality."

"This shelter is not just a response; it is a promise—a promise of safety, healing, and a future free from violence for our women and girls. It stands as a beacon of hope, dignity, and protection. Together, with our partners and the community, we will work tirelessly to create a safer, more just Kilifi," she said.

The facility aims to serve over 500 women and girls annually, providing more than just a safe haven. It offers a comprehensive approach to healing and empowerment, with access to safe housing, medical care, counselling services, legal aid, and skills training programs. This multifaceted strategy is designed to equip survivors with the resources they need to rebuild their lives and break the cycle of violence.

The launch of the shelter involves a partnership involving the Kilifi County Government, the Embassy of Denmark in Kenya, Population Services Kenya (PS Kenya), Population Services International (PSI), Nairobi Women’s Hospital, and the Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC).

Henrik Larsen, Head of Cooperation at the Embassy of Denmark, emphasized the significance of this collaboration: "This shelter is not just a place of safety; it is a key step towards improving gender equality and human rights in Kenya. By working together, we can help break the cycle of violence and empower survivors to take control of their lives."

Alberta Wambua, Executive Director of GVRC, added: "Today, as we launch the National Shelter Program in Kilifi County, we reaffirm our commitment to providing safe havens for survivors of gender-based violence. These shelters are not just buildings—they are sanctuaries of hope, healing, and empowerment. Together, we will break the cycle of violence and build a future where every woman and child can live free from fear."

The Kilifi shelter is part of a larger initiative to establish 13 similar facilities across Kenya, strategically located to serve communities with the highest rates of GBV. This network aims to create a safety net for survivors, ensuring help is accessible to those who need it most.

"We are addressing a critical gap in GBV management by re-establishing shelters across various counties. These shelters will provide safety and support for survivors while ensuring access to care and justice, directly impacting 12% of the GBV burden in Kenya," said Dr. Margaret Njenga, CEO of PS Kenya on the program's potential impact.

The launch comes at a crucial time for Kilifi County and Kenya, where cultural practices, poverty, and inadequate support services have intensified the GBV crisis.

The new shelter seeks to tackle these systemic issues by providing immediate safety and long-term solutions through education and empowerment programs.

As Kenya works toward its commitment to the ICPD25 Promise—zero unmet need for contraception, zero preventable maternal deaths, and zero gender-based violence and harmful practices—initiatives like this will play a crucial role.

The Accelerate Program, funded by DANIDA and implemented by a consortium led by PS Kenya in partnership with GVRC and PSI, focuses on 13 underserved counties across Kenya, including West Pokot, Elgeyo Marakwet, Homa Bay, Kajiado, Kwale, Nairobi, Samburu, Garissa, Mandera, Marsabit, Baringo, Kilifi, and Narok. These counties face common challenges in addressing GBV and sexual and reproductive health rights.