Capacity building needs in the provision of Post Rape Care Services in Nairobi, Kenya

Sexual violence is both a public health and human rights concern in Kenya. While the true extent of sexual violence is hard to know due to underreporting, it is estimated that six out of every ten women globally experience physical and/or sexual violence in their lifetime (Krug et al, 2002). In 2004, the Government of Kenya developed the national guidelines on the management of sexual violence. Despite this, the 2008 post-election violence saw a huge increase in sexual assaults which helped demonstrate the need to have appropriate guidelines to inform service providers. One of the knowledge gaps outlined in Kenya’s research agenda on sexual violence (Maternowska, Keesbury & Kilonzo, 2009) involves researching innovative ways to improve access to, uptake and delivery of quality sexual violence care, treatment and rehabilitation services for men and women in Kenya post sexual assault. This study  addressed this gap by providing insight into the post rape care of survivors from the perspective of health care practitioners .The study utilized a qualitative, phenomenological approach.  Interviews were conducted with 28 medical practitioners from 8 post-rape care facilities, both public and private, in Nairobi Kenya. Questions focused on practitioners’ attitudes, workload, challenges, rewards and impact of working with survivors, coping strategies, ongoing medical training and recommendations for supports to improve their work. Data analysis employed Colaizzi’s (1978) seven-step approach to analysis. One of the main themes from this study was that of capacity building. This theme will be explored and the recommendations for further research will be addressed.