Femicide in Kenya: Beyond Protests, Toward Real Solutions

Every year, the toll of femicide in Kenya grows, with countless women falling victim to violence—often at the hands of those closest to them. Despite protests and public outcry, the cycle of abuse continues unabated, leaving survivors without the tools they need to protect themselves. As the country grapples with these heartbreaking tragedies, one question remains: How can we move beyond protests to create lasting change?

April marks Sexual Violence Awareness Month, a time to reflect on the persistent dangers women face. In Kenya, statistics show that four in ten women have experienced physical or sexual violence before turning 18, and by the age of 25, four in five have been sexually assaulted. Yet, justice remains elusive—only 25 out of 1,000 perpetrators ever see the inside of a prison cell. The overwhelming majority of these crimes—80%—are committed by someone known to the survivor. Perpetrators do not lurk in the shadows; they thrive in places of trust, within homes, workplaces, and communities.

The ways sexual violence manifests are numerous: harassment in public transport, coercion in marriages, exploitation in workplaces, forced prostitution, sexual trafficking, female genital mutilation (FGM), child marriage, and intimate partner violence. The consequences ripple through every aspect of a survivor’s life—physical injuries, reproductive health complications, psychological trauma, substance abuse, social stigma, and financial strain due to medical, legal, and therapy costs. Reporting remains rare due to fear of retaliation, social shame, lack of faith in the judicial system, and cultural and religious pressures.

A Growing Crisis

Kenya has witnessed an alarming increase in femicide cases over the past few years. High-profile murders of women, many at the hands of intimate partners, have sparked national outrage. The case of Ivy Wangechi, a university student brutally murdered in broad daylight by a man she rejected, remains a haunting example of how deep-rooted entitlement and gender-based violence persist. More recently, the brutal murder of social media personality Georgina Njenga by an ex-lover brought fresh calls for justice, yet the cycle of violence continues unabated.

In 2024 alone, reports indicate that at least 172 women have been killed in cases linked to domestic violence, sexual violence, or revenge attacks. The numbers highlight a grim reality—women are not safe in their own homes, relationships, or even public spaces. Law enforcement often drags its feet, with investigations taking years and convictions remaining rare. The justice system’s failure to act decisively further emboldens perpetrators and discourages survivors from speaking out.

The alarming rise in femicide has sparked nationwide protests. On December 10, 2024, hundreds gathered in Nairobi, demanding justice and government action. Police responded with tear gas, arrests, and dismissals. Our very own Brenda Nyambura was present and experienced it firsthand. You can watch her on-the-ground coverage of the protest here: https://youtu.be/l_wCx02JzPM?si=iiHrsWYscPqBFrvn

But a pressing question lingers—are these protests changing anything? What is the essence of these femicide protests? What has changed since the last major protest? I doubt whether a perpetrator is sitting in his house watching the news about the protests and thinking, “Oh yes, I have heard you, I am going to stop now!” The harsh truth is that violent criminals do not respond to outrage; systemic change does not happen through protests alone. While protests raise awareness and put pressure on authorities, they do not address the root causes of gender-based violence.

The government’s responses have largely been performative—promising reforms, forming task forces, and hosting high-profile meetings with no tangible action. Meanwhile, the number of women being killed keeps rising. Without concrete policy changes, enhanced security measures, and widespread education, the protests remain a painful but unfulfilled plea for justice.

The grim reality is that protests, no matter how loud or passionate, are not enough to deter someone from committing violent acts. Protests are a cry for help, but they are not a solution.

Real Change, Not Just Outrage

What needs to be done is both practical and impactful. It is essential to create environments where women are not only listened to but also provided with the tools they need to protect themselves physically, mentally, and emotionally. First, women must receive the knowledge and skills necessary to defend themselves effectively.

Self-defense training should be as fundamental as learning to read. A protest alone cannot stop a murderer or an abuser in the moment—but self-defense can. Schools, universities, and community centres should integrate self-defense programs into their curricula, ensuring that women have the necessary tools to protect themselves in dangerous situations and are equipped with the skills to navigate unsafe situations, establish boundaries, and stand strong in the face of violence.

Additionally, we should promote campaigns for free therapy and counselling services for couples, mainly since the majority of femicides occur within intimate relationships, offering intervention before violence escalates. Many perpetrators of intimate partner violence act out of unresolved trauma, emotional instability, or addiction. Offering therapy to couples could help mitigate underlying tensions before they turn fatal. The solution isn’t just about punishing perpetrators; it’s about addressing the root causes of their actions and providing the tools for healthier relationships.

Women should be taught, preferably by other women, how to care for themselves—mentally, physically, and emotionally—to strengthen their resilience. They should learn to create and maintain boundaries in relationships, recognize red flags early, and seek help if they feel unsafe. If a woman senses danger, she should feel empowered to reach out for guidance or safety immediately. Prevention is not about victim-blaming; it is about empowerment.

Beyond Protests

More than legal punishments after the fact, we need proactive strategies that tackle the root cause—education on healthy relationships, conflict resolution, and emotional intelligence.

Legal reforms and swift justice must be implemented to ensure that perpetrators are held accountable. It is unacceptable that so many cases go unpunished. The government must strengthen the judicial system, prioritizing survivors and expediting cases related to gender-based violence.

Survivors often feel isolated and without support. Establishing community-based safe spaces where women can seek refuge, share experiences, and access necessary resources is critical. These spaces should be easily accessible, non-judgmental, and equipped with professional support services.

Education and awareness play a crucial role in dismantling gender-based violence. Teaching boys from a young age about respect, consent, and emotional regulation can prevent future cases of abuse. Schools should integrate gender sensitivity and respect-based education into their curricula.

Technology and digital safety are increasingly crucial as cyberstalking and online harassment rise. Women should be taught how to protect themselves from digital predators, recognize online threats, and safeguard their personal information.

Economic empowerment for women is another crucial aspect. Financial dependence often traps women in abusive relationships, making it difficult for them to leave. Providing women with economic opportunities, vocational training, and access to financial resources can give them the independence they need to reclaim their lives and make informed empowered decisions.

The Role of Society and Men

Men must be part of the solution. Gender-based violence is not a “women’s issue” alone—it is a societal problem that requires active participation from men. Fathers, brothers, and male friends must take responsibility for calling out abusive behaviours, educating young men on respect, and supporting policies that protect women.

Religious and cultural institutions also play a crucial role. Harmful traditional beliefs that normalize violence against women must be dismantled. Clergy, elders, and community leaders should take an active stance in condemning violence and promoting gender equality.

Protests amplify voices, but real change comes from action. Women should not have to wait for the government to act or for society to wake up. They must be taught to recognize danger and protect themselves. At the same time, systemic solutions—such as accessible therapy, legal reforms, and education—must be pursued relentlessly.

The battle against femicide is not just about seeking justice for those already lost. It is about ensuring that no more names are added to the list. The time for action is now.

Edited by Pius Okore.