Femicide is not a recent issue, however, the alarming scale of the problem in Kenya is startling. The term covers different types of violence towards women, such as domestic violence, rape, honor killings, and dowry-related deaths. The actions stem from ingrained beliefs and societal norms that uphold gender inequality and promote toxicity.
A 2020 report from the World Health Organization reveals that Kenya has one of the highest rates of femicide in Africa, with approximately 47 women being killed every week. Surprisingly, this marks a 50% surge in femicide incidents compared to the last ten years. Moreover, most of these incidents remain undisclosed or overlooked because of social and cultural influences, which heightens the concern.
Economic inequalities are a major factor in exacerbating femicide in Kenya. Women are disproportionately impacted by poverty and a lack of access to education, healthcare, and employment opportunities. When women rely on their partners or families for financial support, they are frequently stuck in harmful relationships with no way out.
Society’s acceptance and normalization of violence against women contribute to the continuation of femicide. Numerous incidents of domestic violence remain unreported because of fear, stigma, or lack of confidence in the legal system. Sometimes, rather than offering assistance, numerous individuals choose to film instances of women being mistreated and share them online.
In order to tackle femicide in Kenya, a holistic approach is needed. Collaboration is needed among the government, civil society, community leaders, and individuals. Here are a few important measures that can be implemented.
Changes in laws and implementation of rules and regulations.
It is crucial to restore the legal framework that pertains to violence against women. It is crucial to have stricter laws aimed at offenders, as well as their effective enforcement. Sufficient training for law enforcement and judicial personnel is necessary to ensure cases are handled in a sensitive and timely manner.
Education and understanding
It is important to introduce thorough educational initiatives at a young age to question damaging gender stereotypes, advocate for gender equality, and inform about women’s rights. This involves educating males and females, as well as young and old individuals, on positive masculinity and valuing women.
Encouragement and Financial Autonomy
Steps should be taken to enhance the economic empowerment of women. Achieving this goal is possible by providing vocational training, offering access to micro-financing, and creating entrepreneurship opportunities. Women who have financial independence are more capable of leaving abusive relationships and taking charge of their own lives.
Services for assistance and secure environments
Survivors of femicide and domestic violence require essential support services such as helplines, shelters, and counseling centers. These safe havens offer survivors the assistance required to reconstruct their lives and escape from the cycle of abuse.
Mobilization of the community
Community leaders, religious institutions, and local organizations are crucial in combatting harmful cultural practices, advocating for gender equality, and educating the public about femicide. It is crucial to engage communities in order to shift perceptions and actions towards women and promote safety for everyone.
By Hussein Waiyaki