Protests against femicide erupted on Tuesday, with women and men taking to the streets in large numbers to show solidarity with victims. Chants such as “End femicide” and “Stop killing women” echoed across the city.
The protests also spread to other parts of the country, including Nyeri, Kiambu, Eldoret, and Kakamega. Demonstrators carried placards with the names of victims, the reasons behind their deaths, and other messages of solidarity.
Notable figures such as Hanifa Farsafi and Morara Kebaso joined the protests, receiving a warm welcome from participants. Political activist Kasmuel Mcoure also attended, but was reportedly chased away by protesters due to his involvement.
Despite the largely peaceful nature of the protests, police used tear gas and live ammunition to disperse demonstrators. Several journalists and protesters were injured in the clashes, and a number of arrests were made.
Among those detained was Irungu Houghton, Executive Director of Amnesty Kenya, who was allegedly arrested by individuals believed to be plainclothes police officers. The protesters in Nairobi remained peaceful, and it is unclear why the police intervened.
The National Police Spokesperson did not immediately respond to requests for comment. Activists have condemned the police response, with many questioning how femicide cases are being handled by law enforcement in Kenya.
Amnesty International released a joint statement, calling the protest a “courageous stand against the killing of women,” demanding urgency in investigating the murders and accountability for the perpetrators.
The national march, which marks the end of the 16 Days of Activism campaign launched last month, was sparked by the ongoing femicide crisis in Kenya.
Over 60% of Kenyan women aged 15 to 40 have experienced physical or sexual violence at least once in their lives, and more than 100 femicide-related deaths have been reported in recent months.
The situation is further compounded by the discovery of 98 bodies in the last few weeks alone, including that of a 19-year-old woman. Men and boys have also fallen victim to gender-based violence.
In response to the rising crisis, President William Ruto announced a commitment of over $700,000 last month to fund a campaign aimed at ending femicide, following discussions with elected women leaders. A UN report released in November highlighted that Africa recorded the highest rate of partner-related femicide in 2023.
The march brought together women, human rights activists, and allies to raise awareness of the growing issue of femicide and gender-based violence in the country.
– Tina Akal
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