NAIROBI, Kenya – Kenya has recorded over 100 femicide cases in the first quarter of 2025, a spike the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) calls “a disturbing and urgent national crisis.”
The alarming trend prompted President William Ruto to establish a Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), including femicide, under Gazette Notice No. 109. However, the group’s findings are yet to be released.
According to KNCHR, the wave of brutal killings exposes the deepening risks faced by women and girls and highlights persistent gaps in State protection systems.
“These killings speak to a dangerous environment for women and girls,” the commission said. “The sheer number of cases within such a short period underscores the gravity of the crisis.”
One commissioner described femicide as “a monster gripping our nation,” warning that the girl child remains particularly vulnerable to systemic disadvantages.
“They are exposed to early marriage and femicide, among other abuses, and relevant agencies must protect them in both rural and urban areas,” the official said.
KNCHR also raised concerns about broader social conditions that enable violence. Chairperson Claris Ogangah noted the role of idleness among youth, emphasizing the need for protective measures and education that strengthens both genders.
Despite increased public awareness and reporting, the commission said survivors and families continue to face slow investigations and stalled cases, with some instances of complete inaction by State agencies.
“Femicide is not just a crime; it is a human rights violation. The State must show that women’s lives matter by acting decisively,” Ogangah added.
The commission is urging the National Police Service to take proactive steps to ensure perpetrators of femicide and related crimes are swiftly investigated, prosecuted, and held accountable.
“Justice delayed is justice denied, and every unresolved case emboldens the next perpetrator,” Ogangah said.
In addition, KNCHR documented 57 deaths linked to violations of the right to life between December 2024 and December 2025, describing the past year as “an affront to Article 26 of the Constitution.”
Most of these violations occurred during civic unrest between June and July.
