Former deputy CJ Baraza to head 42-member taskforce on femicide

Former deputy CJ Baraza to head 42-member taskforce to address femicide. [File, Standard]

President William Ruto on Friday, January, 10, appointed a 42-member task force to address the alarming rise in femicide cases in the country.

The team, led by former Chief Justice Nancy Baraza, has been mandated to assess, review, and recommend measures to strengthen the institutional, legal, and policy response to gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide.

Members of the task force include Ann Ireri, Sam Thenya, James Nombi, Michael Kariuki, Faith Odhiambo, Linda Musumba, and Seth Masese. Others are Gloria Wawira, Shem Nyakutu, Anthony Nzioki, Linah Kilimo, Nobert Talam, Edna Ngare, Lucy Njeri, and Beatrice Karwitha, among others.

The team will report to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki and is expected to submit its findings and recommendations to the President within 90 days.

This appointment comes in the wake of a troubling surge in femicide and GBV cases over the past two years. Last year alone, at least 97 femicide cases were reported, alongside an estimated 4,000 GBV cases each month.

Ruto in the Gazette Notice emphasised the urgent need for action, stating: “The rise in GBV and femicide cases inflicts immense emotional and physical harm on individuals and communities, further deepening gender inequalities.”

Adding that the task force aims to bridge existing gaps in addressing these violations, ensuring a comprehensive response to prevent, investigate, and support survivors.