Kenya Grapples with Rising Femicide and Gender-Based Violence
A devastating case of femicide has come to light in Kenya, where a 10-year-old girl, Mary Wambui, was brutally murdered three years ago. Her mother, Lenah Kanywa, recently shared her harrowing experience, recounting how she found her daughter’s lifeless body under a bed in their landlord’s son’s house. The suspect, now facing trial, allegedly assaulted and killed the young girl.
Tragically, Mary’s case is not an isolated incident. According to the United Nations, one in five women in Kenya are killed every day, with many cases going unreported or misclassified. The true extent of the crisis remains masked, sparking concerns about the rising tide of gender-based violence. A report by Africa Data Hub and Africa Uncensored revealed a record number of femicides in the previous year, prompting widespread protests and prompting the government to establish a task force to address the issue.
Njeri Migwi, founder of the NGO Usikimye, emphasizes the need for fundamental support for women, particularly at the point of reporting crimes. “We need to have a lot of psychosocial support, all the way from the minute you report to the police station,” she stresses. Migwi advocates for trained psychologists to receive trauma victims, rather than police officers, to ensure proper reporting and care.
To raise awareness about femicide and gender-based violence, Usikimye has organized a traveling exhibition, featuring symbolic displays, including bloodstained dresses and a grave to honor victims. The exhibition has provided a platform for survivors, like Lenah, to share their stories and find support. Lenah credits the counseling and support she received with helping her cope with the pain of losing her child.
As Mary’s case finally reaches the courts, her mother hopes for justice, but acknowledges that the pain of losing a child will stay with her forever. The Kenyan government’s efforts to address the crisis, including town hall meetings and investigations, are underway. However, more needs to be done to support victims and prevent such heinous crimes. The international community must take note of Kenya’s struggle with femicide and gender-based violence, and work together to combat this pervasive issue.
