NATURE OF GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE IN KURIA EAST AND WEST SUB COUNTIES, MIGORI COUNTY, KENYA

Abstract

Gender-based violence is a global problem, affecting men, women, and children
disproportionately. It deters optimal participation in social, political, and economic projects
within the community and impedes sustainable community development. Despite government
policies and interventions to mitigate GBV, it continues to be reported. This study therefore
sought to determine the nature of Gender-Based Violence in Kuria East and West Sub Counties,
Migori County, Kenya. The study was grounded on the social network theory and theory of
constraints and employed a mixed-method research design. Stratified sampling technique was
utilized to draw a sample of 165 respondents from a population of 282, while purposive sampling
was adopted to draw participants for focus group discussions and key informant interviews. Data
collection methods included questionnaires, focus group discussions, and key informant
interviews. The quantitative and qualitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and
thematic analysis respectively. The study established physical violence, emotional abuse, sexual
abuse, economic abuse, and female genital mutilation as the most conspicuous manifestations of
GBV, underpinned by deeply entrenched social norms, and cultural practices. The study
concludes that besides patriarchy, deeply entrenched norms continue to propel gender-based
violence, among them physical violence. Based on these findings, the study recommends
enhanced partnerships between Community-Based Organizations, governments, and security and
law enforcement to create synergy and coordinated multi-agency response for GBV. The study
also recommends that the existing laws, policies, and frameworks on GBV to reviewed and
strengthened to ensure an efficient and effective response to GBV and adequate protection of
survivors.