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The United Disabled Persons of Kenya (UNPK) has released a new policy that seeks to address gender-based violence (GBV) among persons with disabilities in Kilifi.

The initiative underscores the need for inclusive policy planning implementation to safeguard the rights and well-being of persons with disabilities in the face of GBV. Speaking in Kilifi, Julius Amoke (pictured), a representative of the Organisation, said gender based violence against people with disabilities is higher in women than men in Kilifi.

Unique challenges

“Our research has revealed that the prevalence of gender-based violence among persons with disabilities bears a disproportionate burden, facing unique challenges that exacerbate their vulnerability,” he said.

The research also showed that 34 per cent of females and 17 per cent of male experience GBV. This issue transcends geographical boundaries, affecting both urban and rural communities.

He highlighted the importance of collective action in fighting GBV against PWDs.

“As UNPK, we appeal to all stakeholders at all levels to head our recommendations and work towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Moses Munga another representative from UNPK, emphasised the necessity for tailored intervention, adding that PWDs encounter multifaceted barriers, including socio-economic disparities and cultural misconceptions, which heighten their susceptibility to GBC. Policy frameworks must address these complexities.

Munga called for the identification of critical gaps existing policies as well as a paradigm shift towards disabilities-inclusion GBV prevention and response efforts. “Our policy briefly servers as a clarion call for stakeholders to prioritise disability inclusion in all aspects of GBV programming,” said Munga.

To address these challenges, the policy brief proposes a comprehensive set of recommendations, including prioritising disability inclusion in policy planning, enhancing collaboration among stakeholders, and allocating resources for PWDs.

Mary Karisa, a woman living with disability, said most PWDs are sexual abused because they mostly depend on others for mobility and other issues. “I can’t see so it is easier for someone to take advantage of my sight problem and sexually abuse me. We have some who cannot talk so it easier for them to be molested because they will mostly not say who did that to them,” she said.

She noted that most PWDs are sexually abused as a result of cultural belief and myths.