How President Ruto Plans to End Femicide

Men’s violence against women is a leading cause of premature deaths for women globally, but research in Kenya and other African countries, just to mention, remains limited and unconnected.

The confirmed murders of 97 women by men in Kenya since August alone have prompted much greater public interest in the issue of femicide, typically defined as the intentional, gender-related killing of women and girls, and the government is now determined to end this crisis.

“Through the Women’s Rights Advisor, we have launched the Safe Home, Safe Space campaign as part of the 16 Days of Activism Against Femicide and other Gender-Based Violence, set to commence on November 25,” announced President William Ruto.

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Speaking yesterday at State House, Nairobi, the President expressed deep concern over the devastating and senseless murders of women, most of whom lost their lives at the hands of individuals they trusted and loved. He pledged Ksh100 million to support the nationwide movement to combat femicide.

“I urge every Kenyan to join this movement to speak out, educate, and stand united against cases of femicide. Our communities need education on the signs and causes of abuse, as well as information on resources available to victims,” the President stated. “This challenge requires the combined efforts of the government, religious leaders, parents, teachers, civil society, and all citizens of goodwill.”

President Ruto highlighted ongoing efforts within the criminal justice and public health sectors to track violent deaths of women better, emphasising that the allocated funds would play a critical role in raising awareness within Kenyan communities.

“Awareness is a crucial step to prevention. We must increase awareness of these campaigns and provide victims with refuge through toll-free platforms such as GBV 1195, Child Help 116, and the DCI anonymous reporting line 0800 722 203,” he noted.

He urged religious leaders to use their platforms to speak positively about women and women’s leadership and to help congregations understand that women’s rights are human rights.

Additionally, he called on parents to stay close to their daughters during the school holidays. He stressed the importance of improving early detection of violence through appropriate assessment, safety planning, and risk management training to reduce the risk of femicide and other harm.

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