Women blame financial instability, retrogressive practices for GBV

From left: Women In Safety Excellence (WISE) Secretary General Monicah Kimeu, Chairperson Purity Kinanu and Head of Counterterrorism branch Emmanuel Chirchir during a gala dinner in Nairobi on December 6, 2024. [Benard Orwongo,Standard]. 

Financial instability, poverty, and illiteracy have been blamed for the rise in femicide in Kenya.

Kajiado Deputy Governor Martin Moshisho also said traditional cultural practices often place women at a higher risk of violence and abuse.

“Retrogressive cultural practices have long oppressed women, and it is time to shed them off to create a safe and secure environment for women,” said Moshisho.

Speaking at the Women in Safety Excellence (WISE) Gala, in Nairobi, Moshisho emphasized that the majority of women become vulnerable to violence in the hands of perpetrators seeking favor.

"We must shed these outdated practices and protect our women. But let’s not forget—the empowerment of women must go hand in hand with the education of men, as they are often the perpetrators of this violence," said the deputy governor.

Moshisho urged for a holistic approach to empowerment. While education for women is crucial, he warned against neglecting the need to educate men as well.

"Men are often the perpetrators of this violence. We cannot leave them out of the conversation around empowerment," he stated.

WISE Secretary General Monicah Kimeu, called for urgent action to stem rising cases of femicide in the country.

"One girl dying is too many. As women in security, we are often blamed for the slow pace of investigations, but we are at the tail end of the problem," said Kimeu.

She reminded women to take personal responsibility for their safety. 

"We must be vigilant about where we go and when. We need to be aware of our surroundings and take proactive measures to protect ourselves. This Gala is not just a celebration; it’s a call to action," said Kimeu.

The fight against femicide was further highlighted through calls for legislative change with the WISE community pushing for the passage of the Femicide Bill, sponsored by Nominated Senator Caren Nyamu. 

The Bill aims to criminalise femicide, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable and that victims receive the justice they deserve.

"We want to emphasize that this is no longer a matter of debate—it’s a matter of life and death," said Kimeu.

 “Let’s stand united against femicide and build a future where women are safe, respected, and valued. Silence allows this violence to continue. It’s time we break that silence and take a stand," she added.

Kimeu's sentiments were echoed by representatives from the private and public sectors, the Ministry of Interior, the United Nations Department of Security and Safety, and private security companies. 

"We are mothers, sisters, and we cannot wait any longer for change. We are calling on all stakeholders to stand with us. We cannot allow our girls to live in fear. We are the guardians of girlhood, and we will not rest until the violence stops,” said WISE chairperson Purity Kinanu.

This year’s theme, Stop Femicide to Protect the Future, highlighted the urgent need for immediate action to end the senseless violence that cuts short the lives of innocent women and girls.