Woman intensifies fight against gender-based violence in Nakuru

As cases of gender-based violence rise, Ms Allys Brown, 23, from United Kingdom, has launched a programme in Baruti, Nakuru, to help young girls overcome trauma associated with the vice.

Many women and girls have been sexually abused in Baruti according to the number of cases reported at Kaptembwo Police Station.

To create awareness, Ms Brown has launched Upendo Tena, a charitable organisation in Nakuru Town to help gender-based violence survivors.

Ms Brown seeks to help girls access education and overcome mental challenges after sexual abuse.

CHALLENGES

Ms Brown said the girls are counselled to help them cope with life challenges.

“My aim is to provide safety, counselling and education to girls escaping gender based violence and sexual abuse,” said Ms Brown.

She revealed that her resolve to help reduce the number of girls who drop out of school after suffering physical and sexual abuse was motivated by the fact that she grew up in a disadvantaged community where GBV was rife.

From a young age I knew I wanted to help girls in vulnerable situations. I saw sexually abused girls suffer after attacks,” she told Nation.

She added: “I have worked hard to access the university education. I want to set up rehabilitation and counselling centre to help girls pursue their dreams.”

POOR GIRLS

Ms Brown has been working in Kenya and Uganda for the past seven years by helping poor girls access education.

She hopes to extend her services to West Pokot where female genital mutilation and forced marriages among young girls are rampant.

She said the safety of the girls in the slums is not guaranteed hence the need to have a rescue centre.

“Many girls are subjected to early marriages and FGM against their wishes,” said Ms Brown.

The centre will improve the girls’ mental health, self-esteem and empowerment them.

“I want to sensitise communities on the importance of respecting the girls and end gender-based violence. I also want to offer girls life skills,” she added.

REHABILITATION

She appealed to well-wishers such as Rotary Club of Nakuru to support her initiative by donating sanitary towels, writing materials and food.

Mr Edward Wahome, former Rotary Club of Nakuru President, praised Ms Brown’s efforts to improve the lives of girls in Nakuru slums. 

“Ms Brown has embarked on a tough job and Rotary Club of Nakuru will support her by ensuring that the suffering girls are rehabilitated,” said Mr Wahome.