The inaugural Meru Press Club Anti-SGBV and Mental Health Awareness run has continued to receive support from leaders pointing to the urgent need for concerted effort to combat the vices.
The event slated for September 20, 2025 at Meru University of Science and Technology (MUST) will mark the start of a one-year grassroots awareness programme spearheaded by journalists.
Among the leaders who have expressed their support include Meru Woman representative Karambu Kailemia, MPs Rahim Dawood (North Imenti), Karambu Kailemia (Women Representative), Kirima Nguchine (Imenti Central), and Mugambi Rindikiri (Buuri).
The initiative has also been backed by MUST Vice Chancellor Prof Romanus Odhiambo, Community Initiative for Rural Development (CIFORD) director Margaret Ikiara, Meru Speaker Ayub Bundi among others.
Speaking when she met MPC officials, Meru Woman rep noted the dire need for enhanced public education on SGBV in the county.
“The fourth estate is a big informer and educator of masses. The fact that many people are suffering from SGBV due to lack of information makes this initiative very timely. Meru has been ranked top in terms of the triple threat and it is our hope that we will be able to contain this,” Karambu said.
She noted that there was a nexus between mental health and SGBV vices in the community.
“It is also important to note that men are also victims of gender-based violence. The problem has grave damage on the family system,” she said.
CIFORD Director Margaret Ikiara noted that female genital mutilation continues to take place among the Meru albeit secretly.
“I am elated that the media professionals have joined us in advocacy because a lot of SGBV cases go unreported. As a grassroots organization, we are ready to partner with the Meru Press Club in helping our communities,” Ikiara said.
CIFORD has been actively involved in combating teenage pregnancies through mentorship of teen girls and boys as well as empowering parents in Meru and Tharaka Nithi counties.
“It is refreshing to see the media stepping up. When journalists report with empathy and accuracy, communities are empowered to act,” Prof Odhiambo said.
Political leaders from Meru have also lauded the initiative, calling it a groundbreaking step towards societal transformation.
“We are supporting this initiative and we are ready to partner with the media to fight the rising cases of gender-based violence and improve mental well-being. The media is the mirror of society, and when they take charge, you can be sure things will change,” said Rindikiri.
The Media Council of Kenya (MCK) has also endorsed the programme, describing it as a model that should be replicated in other counties grappling with similar social challenges.
A Growing Crisis in Meru
Meru County has alarmingly high statistics on gender-based violence and mental health struggles, painting a grim picture of the social landscape.
According to data from the County government, the prevalence of Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) in Meru stands at 16 percent slightly above the national average of 15 percent.
Teen pregnancy rates are at a worrying 24 percent, while physical violence affects 36 percent of the population again, higher than the national average.
The Chairperson of the Meru Press Club, David Muchui, emphasized the urgency of the situation in a press statement.
“We are no longer just storytellers. We are change makers through this programme. We aim to break the silence, challenge harmful norms, and support communities in addressing SGBV and mental health with the seriousness they deserve,” said Muchui.
The run is expected to bring together journalists, students, civil society groups, local leaders, and members of the public in a united stand against SGBV.
Meru Press Club vice chairperson noted that the run is more than just a symbolic act.
“It represents a turning point in how the media engages with society. This run is a physical manifestation of our commitment to protecting the vulnerable and promoting mental wellness,” added Ms Mbatia.
The annual event will also act as a platform for community dialogue, resource sharing, and support networking.
Meru Press Club intends to reach thousands through live radio broadcasts and online streaming, ensuring the message travels beyond physical borders.
Journalists as Advocates
Recognizing the pivotal role that media plays in shaping public discourse, the MPC is also focusing on building capacity among journalists.
As part of the year-long programme, 100 journalists from across the country will undergo training on ethical and impactful reporting on SGBV and mental health.
In addition to training, a technical team led by the Meru Press Club will offer grants to selected journalists to enable in-depth and investigative reporting on these issues.
The aim is to not only inform but to humanize the victims and survivors whose stories are often lost in statistics.
The programme, set to commence officially in December 2025, will also equip media professionals with knowledge on available resources, reporting channels, and support systems for survivors of gender-based violence.
Grassroots forums will be conducted across the county to educate residents on the consequences of harmful cultural practices such as FGM, early marriage, and partner violence.
The forums will also aim to de-stigmatize mental health issues, which often go untreated due to cultural taboos and lack of awareness.
MPC hopes to foster behavioral change through targeted media campaigns and consistent community interaction.
