President Ruto allocates Ksh.100M to combat femicide

Speaking at State House after engaging in a meeting with women leaders, the president said that the campaign would entail 16 days of activism beginning November 25, 2024, to voice against gender-based violence. 

He reiterated the government's commitment to supporting policies that will put an end to the vice, which has resurfaced in recent months.

Recent femicides have made headlines, with female bodies discovered in body bags at dump sites. Other cases involve matrimonial disputes that have turned fatal. 

"Matters psychological support and safe spaces for women and children are a priority in my office. Through the women's right advisor, we are launching a safe home safe space campaign during the 16 days of activism against gender-based violence that will start on November 25, 2024," he remarked. 

"Our communities need education on the signs and causes of abuse and resources available to victims," he added. 

The president also highlighted cases where women are targeted by criminals on social media platforms, urging all citizens to treat the social space with the utmost caution. 

"Social media has become a dangerous avenue for exploitations and I urge our young people to treat strangers on this platform with utmost caution. Parents, schools, churches and community organizations must step up to provide large skills and guidance to our young people."

He instructed the law enforcement sector to expeditiously execute its mandate to bring the culprits to book. 

While stipulating the measures his administration will take, he instructed the law enforcement sector to expeditiously execute its mandate to bring the culprits to book. 

He added that gender-based desks would be enhanced in various institutions to provide prompt services. 

"I have instructed the criminal justice actors to execute their mandate without delay, holding the perpetrators fully accountable. Gender desks in police stations must be enhanced and we will introduce gender desks services in hospitals to ensure they receive immediate service," the president pointed out. 

The head of state appealed to Kenyans to join the campaign and play a role by sensitising the community on gender based violence. 

"I urge every Kenyan to join this movement. Parents have a crucial role. I say so as a parent of four girls myself. Be present and approachable to your children. A strong family is the first line of defence against the dangers lurking in the society," the president pointed out.