KEWOPA launches nationwide campaign to end femicide

The Kenya Women Parliamentary Association (KEWOPA) on Thursday, January 16, launched a campaign dubbed Komesha Dhuluma to combat femicide and other forms of gender-based violence (GBV). 

Speaking during a press briefing at Parliament Buildings, KEWOPA Chairperson and Kajiado County Woman Representative Leah Sankaire stated that the drive aims to address alarming statistics on GBV and provide support to victims. 

According to Sankaire, every woman in Parliament will spearhead the movement by taking the campaign directly to their communities at the constituency level. 

“Each female MP will localize the initiative through community sensitization and engagement forums tailored to the unique needs of their constituencies to relay key messages on gender-based violence and femicide,” said Sankaire. 

Sankaire also revealed that the campaign has received significant support from President William Ruto, who has committed Sh100 million to fund the initiative. 

The launch of Komesha Dhuluma comes at a time when femicide and GBV cases are on the rise in the country.

Last year alone, at least 97 cases of femicide were reported over three months, alongside an estimated 4,000 GBV cases each month. 

Sankaire emphasised that the campaign will focus on sensitization forums, mentorship programs, and intergenerational dialogues, all aimed at addressing the root causes of GBV and femicide while fostering community engagement.