VIHIGA SEXUAL AND GENDER BASED VIOLENCE RECOVERY CENTRE (SGBVRC)

Following the official launch of the Vihiga Sexual and Gender Based Violence Recovery Centre (SGBVRC), the County Government of Vihiga in collaboration with the Civil Society Organisation Network, the Judiciary, and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) convened a stakeholders’ workshop to strengthen evidence against suspected perpetrators of gender-based violence.

The forum, chaired by Hon. Lady Justice Jackie Kamau at the Vihiga Law Courts, brought together key justice actors including healthcare practitioners and the National Police Service. The discussions focused on critical documentation such as the P3 Form, clients’ notes, and Post Rape Care (PRC) documents, which are essential in supporting survivors and ensuring successful prosecutions.

Participants engaged on the specific roles of each stakeholder in seeking justice for survivors of gender-based violence. These roles span across the justice chain and are crucial in ensuring that survivors receive timely and effective redress. Key areas of focus included evidence gathering, clinical elements of medical evaluation, proper handling of rape kits, documentation and legal preparedness, knowledge of legal procedures, presenting evidence, and legal and ethical considerations.

This collaborative effort reaffirms the County’s commitment to delivering justice and protecting the rights of survivors.