Ruto Appoints Former DCJ Nancy Baraza to Lead GBV Taskforce

Former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza /Photo courtesy/

President William Ruto on Friday 9, appointed former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza to lead a 42-member task force focused on addressing Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide.

Ruto made the appointment via a gazette notice , a gazette notice dated January 10, 2025.

The taskforce is aimed at responding to the alarming increase in GBV cases, which pose significant threats to national security and social cohesion.

It will assess and recommend improvements to legal frameworks and institutional responses.

Notable members of the taskforce include Law Society of Kenya President Faith Odhiambo and Citizen TV journalist Franklin Wallah.

The group is expected to deliver recommendations within 90 days, emphasizing public engagement through hearings and submissions.

Additionally, the task force will collaborate with various stakeholders, including the National Government Administration Officers, to enhance survivor support systems and address existing gaps in prevention, investigation and prosecution of GBV cases.

The initiative follows a commitment by Ruto to allocate Sh100 million for awareness campaigns against GBV, highlighting the government’s dedication to combatting this escalating crisis.