NAIROBI - Kenya’s government is under growing pressure to take action following a rise in cases of femicide and other violence targeting women.
There is growing concerns about femicide in the country and lawful ways of protecting women against possible predators.
Thousands of women held major protests across the country over the weekend to raise awareness around the issue.
Government officials on Tuesday held a meeting to discuss ways to protect women against predators.
At least 10 cases of femicide have been reported in Kenya in January alone, with several gruesome murders hitting the headlines.
The Coalition against Sexual Violence (CASV), which brings together 15 women’s organizations in Kenya, has tabled a list of demands to the government which include expedited arrests and legal process for perpetrators, as well as a statement from President William Ruto on the matter and countrywide campaigns on gender based violence.
The Coalition Against Sexual Violence (CASV) calls on the Government of Kenya to prevent and ensure accountability for femicide by training and supporting the National Police Service and the Office of the Director of Public Prosecution to investigate and prosecute cases of gender-based violence.
At least 10 women have been killed in the first month of 2024 alone, intensifying an already troubling trend. According to data collected by Femicide Count Kenya, 504 women have been murdered between 2019 and 2024.
On January 4, 2024, the stabbing to death of 26-year-old Starlet Wahu made headlines. This was followed by several other cases that horrified the nation. The case of Rita Waeni was extremely brutal, including mutilation.
Dr. Johannsen Oduor, the Government Pathologist, who conducted her postmortem, is on record saying he has never witnessed a murder like this in his entire forensic life. Other victims showed signs of being sexually violated before being killed.
