Chief Justice Martha Koome has called on all Kenyans to unite in the fight against the growing menace of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV), emphasizing that the judiciary alone cannot win the war. Speaking in Kisumu during the launch of a specialized court aimed at handling SGBV cases, Koome underscored the importance of a collective, multi-stakeholder approach in tackling the deeply rooted societal issue.
According to CJ Koome, the judiciary is intensifying efforts to address SGBV by establishing structures such as specialized courts that ensure swift, sensitive, and survivor-centered justice. She highlighted that the Kisumu court is part of a broader strategy to improve access to justice for victims and ensure that their cases are handled with the seriousness they deserve.
“We hear you when you talk about children, women, and even men who are traumatized through SGBV. This is at the heart of the delivery of justice,” she said. Koome added that Kisumu had been identified as one of the SGBV hotspots, making the launch of the court a significant step toward justice for survivors in the region.
The Chief Justice stressed that while the judiciary is committed to upholding the rights of vulnerable groups, it cannot succeed without the support of the community, civil society, and other government agencies. “SGBV is a societal problem. The judiciary cannot operate in isolation. We need the community to stand with us,” she said.
Koome further urged Kenyans to report cases of abuse, support victims, and challenge harmful cultural practices and attitudes that perpetuate violence. She emphasized that justice should not only be found within courtrooms but must also manifest in community responses, public awareness, and preventive action.
Her call comes amid growing concerns over the prevalence of SGBV in the country, with many victims often suffering in silence due to stigma, fear, and lack of support. Through coordinated efforts, Koome believes Kenya can build a more just and safe society for all, especially women, children, and other vulnerable groups.
