NAIROBI, Kenya – President William Ruto has pledged his government’s unwavering commitment to tackling femicide in Kenya, terming the escalating cases a national crisis.
Speaking at State House after a meeting with women leaders, the President announced a series of measures, including a Ksh 100 million allocation for a nationwide campaign to create safe spaces for women and children.
“The tragic stories of lives cut short and families shattered by this vice demand immediate attention. Every 4 out of 5 women killed are victims of intimate partner violence, often in spaces they consider safe,” Ruto said, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
The meeting brought together women leaders from various sectors who proposed practical solutions to address gender-based violence (GBV).
Acknowledging their input, Ruto emphasized a united approach, calling on government agencies, religious institutions, and community organizations to join forces.
Enhanced Gender Desks: Police stations will be equipped with improved gender desks, and hospitals will introduce similar services to ensure victims receive timely care.
The President urged parents, schools, and religious leaders to educate young people on the risks posed by social media, a platform increasingly exploited for abuse.
Beginning November 25, the government will support a nationwide “Safe Homes, Safe Spaces” campaign, focusing on prevention, awareness, and victim support.
The campaign will include public education on recognizing signs of abuse, promoting available resources such as toll-free helplines (GBV 1195, child helpline 116, and DCI’s 0800 722 203), and creating awareness of safe havens for survivors.
President Ruto also urged parents to foster open and supportive relationships with their children.
“Strong families are the first line of defense against the dangers lurking in society,” he noted.
Religious leaders were tasked with using their platforms to advocate for women’s rights, reinforcing the message that “women’s rights are human rights.”
The President reiterated his government’s zero-tolerance stance on femicide, promising swift justice for perpetrators.
“As leaders, we are united in ensuring justice is swift and efficient. Femicide has no place in Kenya, and we will not rest until every woman can live in safety and dignity,” he declared.
Speaking at State House after a meeting with women leaders, the President announced a series of measures, including a Ksh 100 million allocation for a nationwide campaign to create safe spaces for women and children.
“The tragic stories of lives cut short and families shattered by this vice demand immediate attention. Every 4 out of 5 women killed are victims of intimate partner violence, often in spaces they consider safe,” Ruto said, underscoring the urgency of the issue.
The meeting brought together women leaders from various sectors who proposed practical solutions to address gender-based violence (GBV).
Acknowledging their input, Ruto emphasized a united approach, calling on government agencies, religious institutions, and community organizations to join forces.
Enhanced Gender Desks: Police stations will be equipped with improved gender desks, and hospitals will introduce similar services to ensure victims receive timely care.
The President urged parents, schools, and religious leaders to educate young people on the risks posed by social media, a platform increasingly exploited for abuse.
Beginning November 25, the government will support a nationwide “Safe Homes, Safe Spaces” campaign, focusing on prevention, awareness, and victim support.
The campaign will include public education on recognizing signs of abuse, promoting available resources such as toll-free helplines (GBV 1195, child helpline 116, and DCI’s 0800 722 203), and creating awareness of safe havens for survivors.
President Ruto also urged parents to foster open and supportive relationships with their children.
“Strong families are the first line of defense against the dangers lurking in society,” he noted.
Religious leaders were tasked with using their platforms to advocate for women’s rights, reinforcing the message that “women’s rights are human rights.”
The President reiterated his government’s zero-tolerance stance on femicide, promising swift justice for perpetrators.
“As leaders, we are united in ensuring justice is swift and efficient. Femicide has no place in Kenya, and we will not rest until every woman can live in safety and dignity,” he declared.
