Activists fault Kwale over delayed gender policy, warn of SGBV setbacks

Kwale County's efforts to combat sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) are hindered by the delay in adopting the essential Gender and Social Inclusion Policy. Rights activists are urging the county government and civil society organisations (CSOs) to work together and expedite the policy's implementation, warning that its absence may undermine gender equality and protection against abuse.

During a mid-term review meeting in Diani on October 12, 2026, Jane Otieno, an officer from East Africa Centre for Human Rights (EACHRights), emphasized the importance of collaboration between the county government, CSOs, and relevant departments. The recently passed Kwale Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) Act, 2023, struggles to be effectively enforced due to the absence of a supporting policy.

Otieno highlighted inadequate funding and identified partnerships as a potential solution to bridge resource gaps. The proposed policy aims to promote gender equality, social inclusion, and access to sexual and reproductive health rights, particularly among young people. Fakii Omar, convener of Kwale Civil Society Organisations, stressed that the county executive and assembly must prioritize the adoption and implementation process to ensure the policy's success.

Failure to do so could result in abandoned policies, as has happened with previous initiatives. Rights defender Fatuma Mohamed emphasized that the policy is crucial for the effective implementation of gender laws and would provide a clear framework for enforcement, strengthening efforts to promote gender equality, social inclusion, and the protection of vulnerable groups in Kwale County.