EFFECTIVENESS OF THE LEGAL AND POLICY FRAMEWORKS IN CONTROLLING GENDER BASED VIOLENCE IN TESO NORTH CONSTITUENCY – KENYA

Abstract

Gender-based violence affects both men and women, but women and girls represent the majority of victims. This study focused on the effectiveness of policy and legal frameworks in controlling Gender Violence in Teso North Constituency, Busia County, Kenya. The study adopted a cross-sectional research design and mixed method approach. This study was guided by the Theory of Change (TOC). For selecting Malaba and Amagoro Areas within Teso North Sub-County, a purposeful sampling technique was used. Data from 294 primary respondents was obtained using a random sampling technique. Data was analyzed qualitatively and quantitatively. Quantitatively, data was analyzed using statistical techniques with the help of SPSS v.27 and thematically using narration for the qualitative data. Data was presented using tables, graphs, charts and verbatim. Study results indicate that legal and policy strategies are factors that are key in combating GBV within the study areas. From the study findings, legal institutional reforms and cultural change; Quality legal aid services; progressive laws and policies as well as a good will from law enforcers are important in controlling GBV. Study findings helped in giving recommendations on the best GBV mitigation approaches that could be adopted by the communities living in Teso North Sub-County. These include; County Government engaging churches and groups in enrolling GBV victims in economic support, engaging legal minds to develop effective legal and policy strategies in controlling Gender-Based Violence and enrolling more campaign programs that should be designed to develop community-based mitigation strategies for controlling Gender-Based Violence.