Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Daily Nation
Published on 2024-01-27 21:00:00
The recent horrendous killings of women in Kenya have brought to light a national and global issue of lethal violence against women and girls. This has sparked a discussion on whether there has been an increase in such cases and whether to label it as ‘femicide’ or ‘homicide’. It is important to clarify these terms to avoid getting sidetracked by simple semantics.
Homicide is the killing of one person by another, encompassing various types of killings. The details of the incident are crucial in determining whether the homicide was intentional, accidental, or due to negligence. On the other hand, femicide or feminicide refers to the intentional killing of women and girls based on gender-related factors. These killings are often driven by ideas and norms of male power, privilege, and superiority.
While official data on homicides in Kenya is available from the National Police Service Annual Crime Report, it does not distinguish between intentional and unintentional homicides. On average, seven people are killed daily in Kenya, with five being male and two being female. Despite the majority of homicide victims being men, a specific focus on the killings of women and girls is essential for several reasons.
Firstly, the killing of women represents the lethal end point of a continuum of gender-based violence. Most female victims are killed by men known to them, often in domestic settings where they should feel safe. This represents a significant public policy issue, as women and girls are often exposed to different forms of violence from an early age.
The data and research globally highlight that femicide is more than just the act of killing itself; it is the extreme result of a broader pattern of gender-based violence that women are subjected to. The norm of violence against women and girls requires a more comprehensive response, including a better understanding of the issue, the transformation of supporting ideas, and capacity-building for those who respond to incidents of violence against women.
In conclusion, it is evident that addressing the issue of violence against women and girls requires a multifaceted approach and a deeper understanding of the structural and cultural factors that perpetuate this violence. This includes providing support to the victims, as well as capacity-building for law enforcement, judicial officers, and other key stakeholders. Only through a comprehensive and sustained effort can the pervasive issue of violence against women and girls be effectively addressed.
