WAJIR, Kenya— The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has condemned the brutal murder of 17-year-old Gaala Aden Abdi, a refugee from the Dadaab Refugee Camp, in what it describes as a horrifying violation of human rights.
Gaala, who was forcibly married to a 55-year-old man, suffered severe abuse before being murdered.
Her body was burned beyond recognition in Wajir County, a crime that has sparked national and international outrage.
“This appalling act is a blatant violation of child rights, women’s rights, and refugee rights,” said NGEC Chairperson Rehema Jaldesa. “As a minor, Gaala was entitled to protection under Kenyan law and international conventions. As a woman, she deserved freedom from gender-based violence, and as a refugee, she was owed safety and security in her host country.”
The NGEC has called for a thorough and swift investigation into Gaala’s murder to bring those responsible to justice.
The Commission expressed alarm over the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) across Kenya, with this tragedy being the latest in a disturbing trend.
NGEC is urging the government to take immediate action, including enforcing laws against forced marriages and GBV, providing support services for GBV survivors, and launching comprehensive awareness campaigns to address the root causes of violence.
“We demand accountability for this heinous crime and urge the government to fulfill its duty to protect everyone within its borders, including refugees,” Jaldesa stated.
The Commission reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for a society where every individual’s rights and dignity are protected, standing in solidarity with victims of GBV across the country.
Gaala’s tragic death has reignited discussions on the protection of vulnerable groups, particularly refugees and young girls, and has put the spotlight on the urgent need for measures to address GBV in Kenya.
