In response to the recent surge in femicide cases across Kenya, the National Police Service (NPS) has vowed to thoroughly investigate and bring justice to victims and their families.
Deputy Inspector General of Police, Eliud Lagat, highlighted this commitment during a press briefing in Nairobi, acknowledging that 97 femicide cases have been reported within the past three months.
Lagat emphasized that addressing femicide requires a collective effort involving government, civil society, and religious organizations. “It’s essential for everyone, from community leaders to everyday citizens, to take part in eradicating femicide and ensuring the safety of women in Kenya,” he stated. The NPS has already seen progress in resolving many cases, with roughly 90% of reported femicide cases resulting in arrests and active court proceedings.
Key cases mentioned included the murder of Marybell Amankor Kapolong in 2018 and the sentencing of Jowie Irungu in the 2018 case involving Monica Nyawira. Another significant conviction was secured in the 2022 murder of Sheilah Adhiambo Lumumba, with the primary suspect receiving a 30-year prison sentence. “These cases are a testament to our dedication to securing justice and supporting affected communities,” Lagat said.
Gender Principal Secretary Anne Wangombe also spoke, reinforcing the government’s commitment to creating safe spaces for all Kenyans. She urged the public to stay vigilant and report any suspicious activity. “Living safely is a fundamental right for everyone,” Wangombe asserted. She also underscored ongoing efforts to strengthen preventative measures against gender-based violence, stressing the need for cultural change to dismantle biases that contribute to femicide.
Calls for action against rising violence have come from leaders across the nation, including Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru. At the recent funeral of Seth Nyakio, daughter of Kirinyaga MCA Lucy Njeri, Waiguru lamented the string of tragic deaths and urged law enforcement to prioritize the safety of Kenya’s youth.
NPS leaders are actively working on targeted strategies and collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure effective investigation and prosecution in these cases. This united approach, they believe, will foster a safer environment for women, provide justice to victims, and alleviate the fear that has gripped the nation amid the increase in femicide cases.
