Femicide, the intentional killing of women due to their gender, has become a deeply concerning issue in Kenya, with rates steadily rising. According to UN Women’s Africa Bureau, Kenya has one of the highest rates of femicide in East Africa, with an estimated 23% increase in reported cases between 2019 and 2022. These acts of violence are often committed by intimate partners or family members and are frequently motivated by a desire to control or punish. Economic stress, gender inequality, and cultural norms contribute to this violence, with many cases going unreported or unresolved due to societal stigmas and weak enforcement of laws.

Femicide in Kenya is exacerbated by gendered social structures that devalue women’s lives and reinforce control over their autonomy. In 2021, the Kenyan media reported several high-profile femicide cases that brought national attention to the issue, sparking public outrage and calls for justice. However, legal frameworks remain insufficient. While Kenya’s penal code criminalizes murder, there are no specific provisions addressing femicide as a distinct crime, leaving a gap in both law and public awareness.

Efforts to prevent femicide in Kenya should focus on legal reforms that classify and prosecute femicide as a unique form of gender-based violence, with harsher penalties for perpetrators. Community education campaigns can work to dismantle harmful gender norms and educate the public about early warning signs. Additionally, creating support systems for at-risk women, such as shelters and emergency hotlines, can offer immediate protection. Public awareness campaigns that challenge gender biases and highlight the value of women’s lives are essential in shifting cultural attitudes. Addressing femicide requires a society-wide commitment to equality, protection, and accountability for all.