Femicide in Kenya: A National Crisis and Call to Action
Kenya is grappling with an escalating femicide crisis, as violence against women and girls continues to rise at an alarming rate. This crisis has ignited national outrage and inspired activism, with events like the December 10, 2024 march marking International Human Rights Day shedding light on the urgent need to end femicide in Kenya and gender-based violence (GBV). Minority Womyn in Action (MWA) joined in solidarity, condemning both the violence against women and the police brutality faced by protesters.
Femicide Statistics in Kenya: The Stark Reality
Recent statistics underscore the gravity of femicide in Kenya. A 2023 report by the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics revealed that 45% of women aged 15-49 have experienced physical or sexual violence. In just the first half of 2024, over 1,500 femicide cases were documented, marking a troubling upward trend.
The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) emphasizes that most perpetrators are intimate partners, with marginalized groups such as LGBTQ+ individuals facing additional layers of vulnerability. Despite existing legal frameworks, enforcement remains inadequate, leaving many survivors without recourse or justice. Femicide in Kenya continues to rise as a result of these systemic failures.
December 10 March: Advocating for Change
The December 10 march brought together hundreds of Kenyans, including activists, survivors, and organizations like MWA. Participants carried banners with messages such as “Stop Femicide” and “Justice for GBV Survivors,” demanding government accountability and systemic change to address femicide in Kenya.
However, the peaceful demonstrations were met with tear gas and water cannons, as police sought to disperse the crowds. Several protesters sustained injuries, and others were arrested. In response, MWA issued a statement condemning the police violence: “The use of excessive force against peaceful protesters is a clear violation of human rights and undermines the fight for justice for women and girls.”
Barriers to Ending Femicide in Kenya
Kenya’s legal framework includes the Sexual Offences Act and the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act, but these laws are poorly enforced. Survivors face numerous barriers, including corruption, stigma, and a lack of accessible support services. The absence of adequately funded shelters and counseling services further exacerbates the situation.
Cultural norms and entrenched patriarchy contribute to the normalization of violence. Survivors are often silenced or pressured into reconciling with their abusers. As Mary Achieng’, a women’s rights advocate, points out, “The justice system’s failure is one of the biggest obstacles to ending femicide in Kenya.”
Why Protests Alone Are Not Enough
While protests play a crucial role in raising awareness and demonstrating public outrage, they have not led to substantive changes in Kenya’s femicide crisis. One key issue is the lack of sustained political will to translate demands into policy action. Additionally, the recurring violence meted out by police during peaceful protests discourages participation and shifts focus away from the underlying issues. Without a comprehensive strategy that includes policy reform, accountability mechanisms, and grassroots engagement, protests risk becoming symbolic rather than transformative. Activists must work alongside policymakers, community leaders, and the media to ensure lasting solutions.
Solutions: Charting the Way Forward
To combat femicide in Kenya effectively, the country must adopt a comprehensive approach that includes:
- Strengthening Law Enforcement: Implement and enforce existing laws rigorously. Provide specialized training for police and judiciary officials on handling GBV cases.
- Expanding Survivor Support: Increase funding for shelters, counseling, and legal aid services. Community-based programs can ensure survivors receive immediate assistance.
- Addressing Cultural Norms: Launch public education campaigns to challenge patriarchal norms and promote gender equality. Engaging men and boys as allies in combating GBV is crucial.
- Inclusive Solutions: Ensure policies and programs address the unique challenges faced by marginalized groups, including LGBTQ+ individuals.
- Protecting Activists: Uphold the rights of activists and ensure their safety during demonstrations. Freedom of expression and peaceful assembly are vital for driving change.
A Unified Call for Justice
Kenya’s femicide crisis demands urgent action. The December 10 march highlighted both the determination of activists and the systemic challenges they face. MWA’s spokesperson aptly stated, “We will not be silenced. Our fight for justice and equality will continue.”
The government, civil society, and citizens must unite to address this crisis comprehensively. By tackling root causes, strengthening systems of support, and ensuring justice for survivors, Kenya can build a society where women and girls are safe, valued, and empowered.