Leaders condemn surge in violent attacks on young women
The nominated senator also expressed support for President William Ruto's initiative to combat gender-based violence and femicide, noting the allocation of Sh100 million to fund awareness campaigns against these issues.
A group of women leaders has strongly condemned the recent instances of violence and cultural oppression directed at young girls and women.
Speaking on behalf of the Kenya Women Senators Association they raised alarms over the increasing number of violent incidents, which have tragically resulted in the loss of young girls' lives.
Veronica Maina, the chairperson of Kewosa, expressed deep concern about the growing prevalence of these attacks despite ongoing efforts to combat such harmful practices.
"It is time we said enough is enough. Widows are not to be inherited, silenced, or humiliated into submission. Girls are not bargaining chips for family honour. They are human beings—worthy of safety, respect, and justice," Maina said.
The nominated senator also expressed support for President William Ruto's initiative to combat gender-based violence and femicide, noting the allocation of Sh100 million to fund awareness campaigns against these issues.
"Let justice speak louder than tradition. Let our girls dream in peace and our women live in dignity. Femicide in Kenya is a systemic issue rooted in a society that encourages and perpetuates violence against women as a method of control and discipline," Maina said.
The former UDA Secretary-General highlighted that Nairobi, Kiambu, and Nakuru are among the counties with the highest number of fatalities.
Other counties with notable incidents include Kirinyaga, Kisii, Kitui, Kisumu, Meru, Machakos, and Nyeri.
The majority of these murders have been linked to romantic relationships or cultural practices.
"We are still mourning the shocking and senseless killing of Gaala Aden Abdi, a 17-year-old girl from a refugee family in Dadaab, who was brutally murdered and her body set on fire in Wajir county for refusing to be married off to a 55- year-old man," she said.
Another recent incident involved the killing of a student by her ex-boyfriend, who was attempting to reconcile with her.
Kewosa also highlighted Kisii, where widows are being disinherited following the deaths of their husbands.
"These acts are not traditions. They are not culture. They are violence—and they are criminals. Kenya is progressive in terms of legislation, but we must ask ourselves: What happens when it comes to implementation? Where are we dropping the ball?"
