Murkomen Lauds Progress in Fight Against Gender-Based Violence in Sports
Speaking during the committee’s full board meeting at Talanta Plaza, Nairobi, Murkomen expressed his satisfaction with the progress report presented.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen. Photo/Kipchumba Murkomen.
Sports Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has commended the significant strides made by the Gender Protection and Implementation Committee in addressing gender-based violence (GBV) within the sports sector.
Speaking during the committee’s full board meeting at Talanta Plaza, Nairobi, Murkomen expressed his satisfaction with the progress report presented.
“I am pleased with the progress report presented by the Gender Protection and Implementation Committee this afternoon. It is encouraging to see the efforts being made to foster gender inclusivity and provide a safe environment for all athletes,” Murkomen stated.
Among the notable achievements highlighted were the strides made toward gender inclusivity within sports federations and teams.
These initiatives aim to ensure fair representation and equal opportunities for all genders in sports governance and participation.
Another critical development is the establishment of a toll-free number that allows athletes, their families, or associates to anonymously report incidents of gender-based violence.
The service aims to break the silence often surrounding GBV by providing a confidential and accessible avenue for victims and witnesses to speak out.
Murkomen emphasized the government’s unwavering commitment to creating a safe and inclusive sports environment, saying, “We are steadfast in our resolve to eradicate gender-based violence in sports. This commitment goes beyond words; it is a deliberate effort to ensure that every athlete, regardless of gender, feels safe and valued.”
The Gender Protection and Implementation Committee was formed as part of a broader government initiative to address systemic issues in sports, including GBV.
Its mandate includes developing policies, raising awareness, and working closely with sports federations to implement effective measures.
Athletes and stakeholders have lauded these initiatives, noting that they are a step in the right direction for Kenyan sports.
Many believe the toll-free reporting mechanism will encourage more victims to come forward and seek justice.
Murkomen urged all stakeholders in the sports sector to actively support these efforts, emphasizing the importance of collective responsibility in creating a safe space for athletes to thrive.
As the government and the committee continue to champion gender protection, Murkomen reaffirmed his call for sports organizations to prioritize inclusivity and zero tolerance for any form of abuse.
The meeting concluded with renewed optimism about the future of Kenyan sports as a beacon of equality and safety, setting an example for the region and beyond.
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