Doctors in Taita Taveta are at the forefront of the fight against gender-based violence (GBV), providing critical clinical services ranging from forensic examinations to mental health support, while also advocating for survivor-centered policies.
Despite persistent challenges such as stigma, under-reporting, and limited resources, recent initiatives have strengthened the health system’s capacity to respond effectively to GBV.
According to Dr. Joto Nyawa, many victims delay seeking medical help. He emphasizes the importance of reporting incidents immediately to the police and undergoing medical examinations after an assault to preserve crucial evidence that can support legal proceedings.
He also urges parents to be vigilant with their children, avoid placing blind trust in others, and educate their children about safety.
“Some of the challenges we face include delayed reporting. A victim might report an assault three days later, by which time they’ve cleaned themselves and the evidence is gone. Even in such cases, we still conduct medical checks to detect any infections and provide the necessary treatment. I urge people to report assaults immediately and seek medical help. I also call on parents to be more vigilant with their children and on the community to unite in ending gender-based violence,” said Dr. Nyawa.
The fight against gender-based violence in Taita Taveta requires a united and sustained effort from all sectors of society. As highlighted by Dr. Nyawa, timely medical intervention, community awareness, and parental vigilance are key to protecting survivors and preventing future cases.
