Where to Find Help: 6 Essential GBV Recovery Centres for Survivors in Kenya

Gender-based violence (GBV) remains a critical challenge in Kenya, affecting women, men, and children across all social and economic backgrounds.

GBV includes physical, sexual, emotional, and economic abuse, often leaving survivors traumatized and in need of urgent support.

Recent high-profile incidents, including the trending story of Nairobi Senator Mike Sonko’s daughter Salma, have highlighted the importance of knowing where survivors can access timely help.

Trending Case: Salma Sonko Brings GBV to the Forefront

The case of Salma Sonko, which has dominated Kenyan media conversations, has reminded the public that GBV can happen to anyone. 

The controversy escalated after a viral video emerged showing Sonko confronting his son-in-law for allegedly assaulting his daughter, Salma.

In the footage, Sonko is visibly angered as he questions the young man about why he had physically harmed Salma, who appears to have visible marks suggesting assault.

Also read: Saumu Mbuvi Condemns GBV After Being Mistaken for Sister Salma

In response, the Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) issued a public statement emphasizing that survivors are not alone:

“If you or someone you know is affected by gender-based violence, you’re not alone. GVRC offers FREE, 24/7 support for survivors. We are here to support every survivor through their healing journey.”
#EndGenderBasedViolence #FreeGBVServices #SpeakUpKE #BreakTheSilence

GVRC – Gender Violence Recovery Centre

Location: Nairobi Women’s Hospital, Argwings Kodhek Road, Kilimani, Nairobi
Founded to provide holistic care for GBV survivors, GVRC offers medical treatment, trauma counseling, legal aid, and 24/7 emergency support.

Services Offered:

24/7 helpline for immediate assistance

Medical treatment for injuries and post-rape care

Psychological counseling and trauma therapy

Legal guidance and court accompaniment

Long-term rehabilitation and survivor support programs

Location: Westlands, Nairobi
Usikimye provides safe spaces for survivors and focuses on community-based prevention programs. 

Services Offered:

Psycho-social counseling

Safe shelters for survivors

Community awareness and prevention programs

Support groups for survivors to share experiences

CoVAW Kenya – Coalition on Violence Against Women

CoVAW Kenya advocates for stronger legal protections and policy reforms for survivors. 

Services Offered:

Legal aid and representation for GBV cases

Policy advocacy and public awareness campaigns

Survivor empowerment and skills training programs

CREAW Kenya – Centre for Rights Education and Awareness

Location: Lavington, Nairobi
CREAW has been a leading organization in GBV advocacy for over two decades. 

Services Offered:

Trauma counseling and rehabilitation

Legal aid services and support navigating the justice system

Public education campaigns on gender equality and rights

Research and policy advocacy

Together for Girls

Together for Girls focuses on protecting children and adolescents from violence. 

Services Offered:

Child protection and abuse reporting mechanisms

Trauma-informed counseling for minors

Community education and awareness campaigns

Training for teachers, caregivers, and local authorities

Together for Girls prioritizes child safety, ensuring young survivors access care and protection in a supportive environment.

Location: Nairobi (confidential offices shared with survivors)
Pesa Yetu combines survivor support with economic empowerment. 

Services Offered:

Microloans and financial literacy programs for survivors

Mentorship and skills development

Counseling and psychosocial support

Community reintegration programs

Pesa Yetu links economic empowerment with recovery, helping survivors regain independence and rebuild their lives.

How Survivors Can Access Support

Survivors can reach these organizations through hotlines, online platforms, or direct visits to their offices. Emergency medical care is available at hospitals like Nairobi Women’s Hospital, where GVRC operates.

Confidentiality and safety are prioritized at all these centers, ensuring survivors receive the support they need without fear.

Here are some key hotlines and contact numbers for GBV help in Kenya

GVRC (Gender Violence Recovery Centre) — 0719‑638 006 / 0709‑667 000 

National GBV Hotline (Healthcare Assistance Kenya, HAK) — 1195 (24/7) 

COVAW (Coalition on Violence Against Women) — Toll-free: 0800‑720 553 

CREAW (Centre for Rights Education & Awareness) — 0800‑720‑186 

SGBV / Police Protection Line — 0800‑730 999 

High-profile cases like that of Salma Sonko highlight the pervasive nature of GBV and the importance of accessible support. Organizations such as GVRC, Usikimye, CREAW, CoVAW, Together for Girls, and Pesa Yetu provide critical services that range from medical care to legal aid and economic empowerment.

Survivors are encouraged to speak out, seek help, and know that they are not alone. Ending GBV in Kenya requires collective effort, awareness, and community engagement to ensure every survivor can heal and reclaim their life.