NGEC Advances Gender Justice: Guiding SOPs for SGBV Response in Lamu

In a ground-breaking move to combat Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Lamu County, the Malindi Regional Office, in collaboration with Muslim Women Advancement of Rights and Protection (MWARP), commenced an initiative to develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) aimed at improving the prevention, response, and access to justice for survivors of (SGBV).

MWARP’s Executive Director leads this initiative, Rahma Gulam, whose commitment to gender justice has been a driving force behind the project.

The two-day engagement, held at Sunsail Hotel in Lamu, brought together key stakeholders from the justice sector, including Hon. Martin Wachira, the Principal Magistrate of Lamu, who is leading a select committee of justice sector actors.

The discussions were aimed at creating a robust, survivor-centered framework for SGBV response that would ensure a swift, coordinated, and empathetic approach in addressing cases of violence. With the participation of magistrates, law enforcement, health professionals, and civil society groups, the session set the stage for a comprehensive, collaborative effort to support survivors and ensure that perpetrators are held accountable.

The development of these SOPs is critical for streamlining the often fragmented responses to SGBV in Lamu, where survivors can face numerous barriers to accessing justice. By setting clear guidelines for the justice system’s role in handling such cases, the SOPs aim to reduce delays, eliminate inefficiencies, and ensure that all survivors receive the protection and legal redress they deserve.

The focus is not only on law enforcement but also on creating a community-oriented approach to prevention, support, and healing for victims.

At the heart of this initiative is the commitment to putting survivors first. Rahma Gulam, as the Executive Director of MWARP, emphasized the importance of crafting a framework that prioritizes the needs and well-being of those affected by SGBV.

Her leadership has been instrumental in guiding this initiative, ensuring that the voices of survivors are heard, and that their needs inform every step of the process. “The goal is not just to implement SOPs, but to transform the justice landscape in Lamu, ensuring that every survivor receives justice without fear or delay,” said Gulam.

The engagement in Lamu marks an important milestone in the region’s efforts to address SGBV systematically. Once finalized, the SOPs will not only serve as a reference point for Lamu County but will also set a new standard for safety and accountability across the country.

The project has garnered broad support from local and national stakeholders, all committed to creating a safer, more equitable environment for the women and children of Lamu.

Rahma Gulam, MWARP Executive Director, leads the brainstorming session as Lamu Principal Magistrate Martin Wachira listens closely