Recently, Kenya has witnessed a horrifying increase in cases of femicide.
The alarming statistics paint an ugly picture of the state of women’s safety.
This issue goes beyond simple statistics as it represents a deep-rooted problem that demands urgent attention.
Femicide is not just a crime against women but also a violation of basic human rights and an assault on the fabric of society.
This term covers a range of violent acts against women, such as domestic abuse, sexual violence and honor-based killings.
Several high-profile cases have brought the issue into the spotlight.
For instance, the murders of university students by their partners and the deaths of women in domestic settings have underscored the grim reality that no demographic is spared.
The victims often share a common thread: they are targeted for their gender, sometimes as a result of rejecting advances, leaving abusive relationships, or simply asserting their independence.
In January alone, more than 10 women were brutally killed, often by intimate partners or individuals they knew.
Two high-profile cases involved Starlet Wahu and Rita Waeni, both of whom were found murdered in short-stay rentals after reportedly meeting their killers through online dating platforms.
These incidents highlight not only the physical violence but also the increasing risks posed by digital interactions.
Ugandan athlete and Olympian Rebecca Cheptegei died in September after being set alight by a man she knew in Eldoret.
Cheptegei’s murder was reported to have been about a conflict over land ownership.
From this instance, economic dependency on male partners can trap women in abusive relationships.
Economic dependency on male partners can trap women in abusive relationships hence lack of financial autonomy makes it harder for victims to escape these violent situations.
Another root cause of femicide is cultural norms and patriarchy.
Traditional gender roles often reinforce male dominance and female subservience.
Women who challenge these norms can become targets of violence.
Although Kenya has laws like the Sexual Offences Act and the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act, enforcement remains weak.
Corruption, inefficiency and victim blaming often hinder justice.
Most communities often turn a blind eye to abuse, and victims are frequently blamed or shamed for their plight.
This culture of silence perpetuates the cycle of violence, although Kenya has laws like the Sexual Offences Act and the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act, enforcement remains weak.
Corruption, inefficiency, and victim blaming often hinder justice.
The government should assist in strengthening laws and their Enforcement.
Existing laws need to be enforced rigorously.
Additionally, the legal framework should be reviewed to close gaps that allow perpetrators to escape justice.
Fast-tracking gender-based violence cases and establishing specialised GBV courts could improve the judicial process so as to assist curb femicide.
Additionally, economic empowerment programmes for women can reduce dependency on abusive partners.
Education and vocational training can equip women with skills to achieve financial independence.
Changing societal attitudes is crucial.
Public awareness campaigns can challenge harmful norms and promote gender equality.
JASON TINEGA
Procurement assistant officer, Centre for the Study of Adolescence
