Human rights organizations in Kenya are pressing the government to declare the surge in women murders a national disaster, following the deaths of at least 30 women at the hands of intimate partners since the beginning of 2024.
The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA) during an earlier event; Photo Courtesy
The Federation of Women Lawyers in Kenya (FIDA), alongside the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and eight other human rights bodies, have criticized the government’s inadequate response to the mounting crisis of gender-based violence.
“In 2024, so far, FIDA-Kenya is aware of at least 30 cases of women who have died at the hands of intimate partners as a result of domestic violence and femicide,” LSK Deputy President Mwaura Kabata said during a press briefing.
In a significant legislative push, FIDA has announced plans to advocate for the recognition of femicide as a distinct criminal offence within Kenya’s penal code. This move aims to strengthen legal protections for women and ensure more effective prosecution of perpetrators.
The coalition of rights groups argues that the government’s current approach falls short of addressing the severity and scope of the crisis. They are urging for immediate intervention and comprehensive measures to protect women and girls nationwide.
The demand for a national disaster declaration comes amid growing public concern over the safety of women in Kenya and increasing pressure on authorities to implement more effective preventive measures against gender-based violence
