SPEECH BY HER EXCELLENCY MARGARET KENYATTA,

THE FIRST LADY OF THE REPUBLIC OF KENYA

DURING
THE
OFFICIAL
OPENING
OF
THE
REFURBISHED
KENYATTA
NATIONAL
HOSPITAL
GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE RECOVERY WARD ON THE
8TH DECEMBER, 2015.
Distinguished guests,
Ladies and Gentlemen,
It gives me great pleasure to be here this afternoon
to open the newly renovated Kenyatta National Hospital
Gender Based Violence (GBV) treatment ward.
The
setting
up
of
this Ward reflects
the Governments commitment to eradicate genderbased violence in our society. GBV is a crime that should
concern all
of
us;
many are
affected either as victims, relatives
or
as friends
of someone who has been affected.
GBV is also one of the least prosecuted crimes; it inflicts
long-term pain and gives way to silent outrage. Studies
show that children who have witnessed, or been subjected
to violence are more likely to become victims or abusers
themselves. If this is left unaddressed, these violations
pose serious consequences to current and future
generations and they compromise the peace and security
of our Nation.
The fight against Gender Based Violence will not be won
without
strengthening the family
set
up. A strong
family foundation will help bring up generations that
respect the sanctity of human life and guarantee peaceful
co-existence of all genders.
Countries that enact and enforce laws on violence against
women have less gender-based violence. Kenya is
proud to be among 160 countries that have enacted

sexual offence laws to address sexual violence; however,

in too many cases enforcement is lacking.
We must also remember that women and children are not
the only victims of violence. Kenya has witnessed cases of
men who have been assaulted by close friends or wives.
Social violence should be treated equally irrespective of
gender.
I wish to thank Kenyatta National Hospital for the
continued improvement in the provision of intervention
healthcare services for victims. This positive, timely and
efficient response has reduced hopelessness and impunity
and fostered a culture of justice and support. This country
will prosper when each one is guaranteed safety so that
we can live free of violence and enjoy equal access
to opportunities.
I sincerely thank the German Development Cooperation
through the Sexual Gender Based Violence (SGBV)
Networks Project for their generous contribution towards
this cause.
Let me take this opportunity to wish fellow Kenyans a
happy and peaceful Jamhuri Day.
I thank you all.