Kenya's Femicide Crisis: Women Sound the Alarm on Rising Violence

In the wake of a wave of injustices that have rocked Kenya, thousands of women took to the streets in January 2024, demanding an end to the violence that has claimed the lives of Scarlet Wahu, Rita Waeni, and countless others. This outpouring of collective anguish underscores a deep-seated crisis—one that demands urgent attention and decisive action.

Vigils, "Dark Valentine", were held on February 14th to honor the victims and draw attention to the urgent need for action.

FEMICIDE.

The targeted killing of women due to their gender.

As 2024 unfolds, we are once again confronted with the harrowing reality of gender-based violence, as media outlets report the murders of at least 14 women in the beginning of the year. The surge in killings has ignited a groundswell of outrage, prompting thousands to take to the streets in protest across the country. In the face of these atrocities, the demand for change rings loud and clear: "Stop killing us!" Yet, amidst the outcry, there remains a stark realization that government institutions are failing to protect women from harm.Despite existing laws against gender-based violence, their inadequate enforcement underscores the urgent need for systemic reform.

Ottawa femicide protests

Women protesting in Mexico against femicide

Kenya's struggle with femicide mirrors a global epidemic of gender-based violence. From Canada, Latin America, Middle-East to South Africa, women are rising up to challenge the structures that perpetuate violence and demand justice for the victims of femicide.

In the face of tragedy, we cannot afford to look away. Femicide is not just a statistic—it's a human rights crisis that demands our attention and our action. Together, let's stand with the women of Kenya as they demand justice, accountability, and an end to the violence that threatens their lives. The time to act is now.