Kericho: A Kericho Human Rights Defender has described strict laws targeting perpetrators of femicide as crucial in ending the escalating cases of violence against women in the country. In an interview with KNA, the Kericho Centre for Human Rights (KCHR) Executive Officer Robert Ngeno said strict laws targeting the offenders and effective implementation of the rulings would discourage potential offenders and signal the government’s commitment to protecting women.
According to Kenya News Agency, Ngeno emphasized the need for legislative reform to close loopholes in the existing legal framework. He suggested that the National Assembly should prioritize these reforms and collaborate with the Director of Public Prosecutions to enhance their authority in dealing with femicide cases. Ngeno advocated for treating femicide differently from other criminal offenses by expediting court cases and reassessing bond terms to deter potential perpetrators.
Furthermore, Ngeno highlighted the importance of educational initiatives to address femicide. He proposed implementing sensitization programs in schools to promote gender equality, raise awareness on women’s rights, and challenge harmful societal norms. He called on the Ministry of Education to introduce these teachings as early as Grade 4 to instill respect for women and educate both genders on healthy masculinity.
The Human Rights Defender also urged communities and religious institutions to collaborate in reshaping societal attitudes towards women. This collective effort, he argued, would foster a safe environment where women can thrive and contribute meaningfully to society.
According to police records, at least 97 women across Kenya were killed last year. In response, the government recently established a 42-member task force dedicated to combating gender-based violence (GBV) and femicide.