KUTRRH launches Tumaini Clinic to aid GBV survivors

CHARLES MUOKI -KNA

Kenyatta University Teaching, Research and Referral Hospital (KUTRRH) has launched a specialized recovery centre for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) to provide comprehensive medical, psychological, and legal support services.

The new facility, named the Tumaini Clinic, is designed to provide holistic medical, psychological, and legal support services to victims of gender-based violence, while also strengthening the hospital’s role in addressing such cases within the wider community.

Speaking during the official launch, KUTRRH Chief Executive Officer Dr. Zeinab Gura emphasized that the clinic will deliver integrated services aimed at helping survivors recover and rebuild their lives.

Her remarks, delivered on her behalf by the hospital’s Director of Training and Research, Dr. Caroline Ngugi, underscored the urgency of tackling gender-based violence, which she described as both a public health crisis and a human rights issue.

“Data shows that nearly 40 percent of couples have experienced some form of gender-based violence from their partners,” Dr. Gura noted.

“The Tumaini Clinic will provide post-exposure prophylaxis, emergency medical treatment, psychosocial support, legal linkages, and follow-up care to ensure survivors begin the journey toward healing and recovery,” she said.

She added that the hospital will also invest in specialized training for its staff to ensure survivors receive trauma-informed, compassionate, and professional care.

Health officials at the launch highlighted the complex medical and psychological needs of survivors, many of whom endure long-term emotional scars after experiencing violence.

Senior Nurse, Purity Kibathia, representing the clinic’s director, explained that stigma and fear often prevent victims from seeking help, leaving them to suffer in silence.

“Gender-based violence remains a common health and human rights issue in society. Survivors frequently struggle with deep psychological wounds that require sustained mental health support,” Kibathia said.

“This clinic will provide a safe and supportive environment where they can seek help and begin rebuilding their lives,” he said.

Yusuf Yahya, a police officer and Gender-Based Violence coordinator at Kahawa West Police Station, revealed that many incidents go unreported despite the high number of cases recorded at police stations.

The police officer used the occasion to urge the public to report cases of abuse and avoid shielding perpetrators .

“The cases we receive at the station are many, and we believe the number could be higher since many victims still fear stigma or retaliation,” Yaya said.

“People should report all cases and avoid protecting perpetrators so that justice can be served and victims protected,” he said.

The CEO said that the Tumaini Clinic will not only enhance access to care but also contribute to broader national efforts aimed at reducing gender-based violence.