An Assessment of Gender-Based Violence Policy Implementation in Kenya

The aim of the study was to assess the policy intent and policy implementation of Gender Based Violence policies. The objectives of the study were to and assess the policies governing Gender-Based Violence policy implementation in Kenya; to analyze the relationship between policy intent and implementation of Gender-Based Violence in Kenya; to examine various barriers to Gender-Based Violence policy implementation in Kenya at a national level. The study employed explanatory research and consisted of qualitative research. Data collected was through document research. The study findings indicate that Kenya has established and adopted excellent Gender-Based Violence policies. The implementation of Gender-Based Violence policies and legislation has been clearly outlined within the constitution and other acts such as the Sexual Offences Act, the (Anti FGM act), and the National Policy on the Prevention of Gender-Based Violence and CEDAW. Implementation of and programming of the policies has been conducted through the creation of boards and taskforces to oversee procedure, however a multi-stakeholder approach is how implementation is carried out. The challenges assessed were limited resource allocation, limited statistical data and evidence of GBV in programming and no clear coordination or streamlining from stakeholders. The policies have as well not been updated and so with there is limited capacity of implementing the policies. The study recommends the coordination of implementation activities that Gender-Based Violence stakeholders who are both policy makers and implementers of Gender-Based Violence policy and Gender Responsive Budgeting (GRB) per county that is specific to the GBV implementation of policy.