Clergy in Mombasa have raised concern over an increase in gender-based violence (GBV) cases affecting men in the coastal region, calling for improved reporting and support systems.

Leaders from the Presbyterian Church of East Africa (PCEA) noted that male victims often face stigma and silence due to fear of ridicule.

Led by Rev. Benson Muhota of PCEA Jomvu Parish, the clergy urged the establishment of a dedicated reporting desk for men seeking assistance in GBV cases. They linked rising incidents to mental health challenges and depression among men who lack safe spaces to report abuse.

“We are welcoming over 100 men into the Presbyterian Church Men’s Fellowship. This will enlighten them on gender issues and serve as a counseling and mentorship platform,” Rev. Muhota said.

The fellowship is expected to support awareness creation on GBV and provide mentorship programmes targeting youth, including training initiatives aimed at economic empowerment and social responsibility.

National response and policy concerns

The concerns come amid ongoing national discussions on GBV response systems and child protection services. During a consultative forum in Machakos County on March 27, 2026, the Senate Committee on Labour and Social Welfare reviewed the 2026 Budget Policy Statement with the Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children’s Services.

Chairperson Senator Julius Murgor highlighted gaps in funding affecting child protection, family planning and GBV response programmes. Cabinet Secretary Hanna Cheptumo noted delays in case resolution within child protection systems, citing institutional challenges affecting service delivery.

Senator Crystal Asige pointed to shortfalls in family planning services, while Embu Senator Alexander Mundigi called for inclusion of men in gender-related programmes. Principal Secretary Anne Wangombe emphasized the need for broader engagement of men in addressing gender issues.

Government action and institutional response

Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen reaffirmed government commitment to addressing GBV while opening the Bura Police Station in Mwatate Sub-County, Taita Taveta County, on March 26, 2026. He announced the deployment of additional officers to strengthen response mechanisms for GBV-related cases.

The Judiciary has also established specialised Sexual and Gender-Based Violence courts to handle cases using trauma-informed approaches aimed at improving efficiency and victim support.

However, human rights organisations, including Amnesty International Kenya, have continued to raise concerns over delays in implementing recommendations from the GBV Taskforce report.

Clergy leaders in Mombasa said expanding support structures for men, alongside existing GBV response systems, could help address underreporting and stigma. They called for integrated approaches that include counselling, awareness, and community-based mentorship programmes to strengthen prevention and response efforts across the coastal region.