Nairobi, Kenya – Kenya has recorded more than 100 femicide cases in the first three months of 2025, a surge described by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) as “a disturbing and urgent national crisis.”
The sharp rise in the killings of women and girls prompted President William Ruto to establish a Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), including femicide, through Gazette Notice No. 109. However, the team’s report is yet to be made public.
Dangerous Pattern of Violence
According to the Commission, the pattern of brutal murders reveals deepening risks faced by women and exposes persistent gaps in State protection systems:
“These killings speak to a dangerous environment for women and girls. The sheer number of cases within such a short period underscores the gravity of the crisis,” KNCHR said.
One commissioner described femicide as “a monster that is gripping our nation,” warning that the girl child continues to face systemic disadvantages, including early marriage and exposure to violence.
“The relevant agencies should protect the girl child in both rural and urban areas,” the commissioner added.
Broader Social Concerns
The Commission also raised concern over the broader social environment enabling violence. KNCHR Chairperson Claris Ogangah noted:
“There are so many instances where youths are idle and they resort to crime. We need to protect our girls and boys, who we have neglected over the years. We need to strike a balance to strengthen both genders and safeguard them through our education system.”
Despite increased reporting and public outcry, KNCHR highlighted that survivors and families of victims continue to face slow investigations, stalled cases, and, in some instances, complete inaction by State agencies.
“Femicide is not just a crime, it is a human rights violation. The State must demonstrate that women’s lives matter by responding decisively,” the Commission said.
Call for Swift Action
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:
“We cannot continue losing women and girls to senseless violence. Justice delayed is justice denied, and every unresolved case emboldens the next perpetrator.”
Additionally, 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 2025.
