Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-01-27 11:05:32
In Kenya, women and feminists have taken to the streets in an ongoing fight against the rising number of femicide cases in the country. This nationwide protest, called ‘Feminists March Against Femicide’, is simultaneously occurring in 11 counties, including major cities such as Nairobi, Mombasa, and Kisumu. The demonstration aims to bring attention to the alarming murders of women happening across the country.
In particular, the recent brutal killings of two women, Starlet Wahu and Rita Waeni, have sparked outrage and served as catalysts for the current protests. These cases are just a few examples of Kenya’s growing femicide problem. Over the years, the country has witnessed numerous high-profile femicides, such as those of Sharon Otieno, Ivy Wangeci, Eunice Wangari, and Agnes Tirop.
A study conducted by the Africa Data Hub has estimated that there may be around 500 femicide victims between 2016 and 2024 in Kenya. Furthermore, statistics from UN Women show that Africa has recorded the highest number of female intimate partner and family-related homicides worldwide.
In response to the escalating femicide cases, the Kenyan Constitution established legal mechanisms to protect women’s rights under Article 27, while the Penal Code provides penalties for violence against women and girls. Nonetheless, perpetrators of intimate partner violence and femicide often go unpunished, prompting women to demand accountability through peaceful protests and online campaigns like the hashtag #TotalShutdownKe.
In light of the ongoing protests, various human rights organizations, including Amnesty International, have publicly voiced their support. Prominent leaders, like Raila Odinga and Aisha Jumwa, have also expressed concern over the rise in femicide cases, labeling it a “national emergency” and emphasizing the need to strengthen legal enforcement against gender-based violence.
Several government officials have pledged to push for stiffer penalties for perpetrators of sexual and gender-based violence. Additionally, calls have been made to expedite cases of intimate partner violence and ensure survivors are treated with dignity. Women’s rights organizations have also called out the National Police Service for failing to bring perpetrators of intimate partner violence and femicide to justice.
The ongoing protests and solidarity from both the public and government officials underscore the urgent need to address and combat this heinous crime in Kenya, reinforcing the unwavering commitment to protecting the lives of women and girls.
