Mombasa Women Leaders Push Free Legal Clinics to Fight Rising GBV

Women leaders and activists in Mombasa County have raised alarm over rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) and child sexual abuse, announcing plans to establish free legal clinics to help survivors access justice and rehabilitation services.

The group, led by lawyer Fatma Bakari Barayan, held a press conference in Mombasa to condemn recent incidents and outline a coordinated response involving lawyers, community leaders, police, and civil society organizations.

Gender-Based Violence Mombasa Cases Prompt Free Legal Clinic Announcement

Barayan said she will soon open legal clinics across Mombasa County at no cost to clients, covering all sub-counties and accessible at ward level.

The clinics will offer legal advice, court representation, and coordination with mental health and rehabilitation services for survivors.

“We have decided to start legal clinics that will be free of charge. You come, you consult, and we advise you,” Barayan said. She added that justice for survivors cannot end at sentencing.

 “What is next for the victim? That question must be answered by the community, not just the courts,” she said.

Meanwhile, Barayan cited GBV cases including the deaths of Gloria in Magogoni and a woman identified as Elizabeth Nina in Likoni, both already matters of public record, to illustrate what she described as a gap between reporting and justice.

She also referenced ongoing court proceedings in the case of Josephine Terem.

In addition, Barayan called on the Law Society of Kenya, Mombasa branch, along with NGOs and community-based organizations, to partner with the clinic initiative. She said cases must be concluded quickly in court, and survivors need economic and psychological support beyond the legal process.

Activists Call for Police Cooperation and Community Reporting

Sabrina Kanini, an activist from Mvita Sub-county, said GBV affects men, women, and children across all communities. She urged neighbours, teachers, and village elders to report suspected abuse immediately rather than settling matters privately.

“If you see a mother or father hiding the fact that their child has been abused, tell us in confidence. We will come, rescue that child, and ensure they get justice in court,” Kanini said.

However, Kanini also called on the government to restrict access to online pornography, arguing it contributes to sexual violence. She urged parents to monitor their children’s phone use and engage more actively in their children’s daily lives.

Zainab Baraka, a women leader from Kisauni Sub-county, urged police to work more closely with community organizations. She said the death of Brenda Opiyo, whose case is already before the courts, illustrates the urgency of faster police response to GBV cases.

“If you see your marriage is failing you, don’t wait until you are in a mortuary for someone to be arrested. Life is important. Step aside,” Baraka said.

Furthermore, Shila Shalo, from Old Town, said women in Mvita have become more willing to report abuse. She criticized a system where survivors report to police but still fail to receive justice.

“Women have closed their eyes and decided they are no longer afraid of the shame. They are coming forward. But justice is still not found,” Shalo said.

Community leader Mama Hawa from Field Town Ward called on men to exercise restraint and on married couples in crisis to pursue legal separation rather than violence.