Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a serious public health and human rights concern in Kenya. AAccording to the Kenya Demographic and Health Survey (KDHS) 2022, 34% of women aged 15–49 have experienced physical violence since age 15, while 16% reported experiencing physical violence often or sometimes in the 12 months preceding the survey. In Kilifi County, the situation mirrors this national trend, with about 20.1% of women having experienced physical violence since age 15. These figures highlight the persistent burden of violence and reinforce the urgent need for accessible, survivor-centred protection and response systems at community level.
It is within this context that, on 4 December 2025, residents of Marafa marked a significant milestone with the official opening of the Garashi Resource and Protection Centre, established by ActionAid Kenya with the support of child sponsorship links through ActionAid Hellas. The centre represents an important step in strengthening the fight against GBV and advancing the rights of women and girls across nine surrounding villages. It stands as a symbol of hope for survivors and vulnerable community members seeking safety, justice, and renewed opportunity.
“This is more than a building; it is a safe space for survivors of gender-based violence and all women to access justice, support, and real opportunities to thrive. It is a place where dignity is restored, voices are strengthened, and hope is rebuilt. Mercyline Kadii, Chairperson, Sauti Ya Wanawake Magarini
Designed as a comprehensive support hub, the Garashi Resource and Protection Centre provides survivors of GBV with access to protection services, psychosocial counselling, and empowerment programmes. Through these services, survivors are supported not only in their recovery but also in rebuilding their lives and developing long-term resilience. The centre reflects a growing commitment to ensuring that women and girls can live free from violence and reach their full potential within their communities.
The opening of the centre marks the culmination of more than 13 years of ActionAid Kenya’s engagement in Garashi. During this period, the organization has worked alongside the community to promote awareness of rights, strengthen the protection of women and girls, and support economic empowerment initiatives. It has also contributed to improving access to education through the construction of schools and sanitation facilities, while providing vital assistance during emergencies such as floods and droughts. The establishment of the centre ensures that these efforts are sustained through a permanent, community-based institution.
“Through this centre, we aim to support survivors of gender-based violence across nine villages. This is the result of over a decade of partnership with the Garashi community, and it will continue to protect and empower vulnerable members for years to come.” Samson Orao, Interim Executive Director, ActionAid Kenya
The centre was officially inaugurated by Peter Abande, Board Chairperson of ActionAid Kenya, and Samson Orao, Interim Executive Director, in the presence of Felkin Kaingu, County Executive Committee Member for Education and ICT representing the Kilifi County Government, along with other partners and community stakeholders. Their participation underscored the importance of collaboration in driving sustainable development and ensuring long-term impact.
“We will continue to build on the foundations laid by ActionAid Kenya. The Garashi Resource and Protection Centre is a key platform for community safety, empowerment, and development.” Felkin Kaingu, CECM for Education and ICT, Kilifi County
Now fully operational, the Garashi Resource and Protection Centre provides essential services that promote safety, justice, and empowerment for survivors of GBV and vulnerable women across nine villages in Marafa. As ActionAid Kenya transitions from direct implementation in the area, the centre remains a legacy that will continue to strengthen community resilience, uphold rights, and safeguard the dignity of women and girls for years to come.
Author: Ezra Kiriago ,Communications Coordinator ActionAid Kenya.