Kenya confronts alarming wave of gender-based violence, records over 7,000 cases

Kenya is grappling with a surge in gender-based violence, logging more than 7,100 reported cases since September 2023, according to official data. Among these are 100 documented murders of women just since August. The new figures include the story of Sarah Wambui, who was brutally attacked by her husband of 20 years. She suffered 38 stab wounds, which severely damaged her kidney and liver. Although she left the hospital in August, she continues to live in fear, as her husband remains at large and allegedly threatens her life.

Public outrage reached a breaking point two weeks ago, when protesters gathered in Nairobi to demand justice and decisive government action. Police responded with tear gas, dispersing crowds and making arrests—moves criticized by human rights advocates. Many activists argue that the reported statistics are likely to be an undercount, as countless cases go unreported or undocumented.

Acting Interior Minister Musalia Mudavadi has acknowledged the crisis, confirming that Nairobi County recorded the highest number of cases, whereas more remote regions like Samburu and Mandera reported fewer incidents. He further stated that investigations into most of the murders have concluded, although they await court proceedings.

Advocacy groups stress that entrenched patriarchal norms and economic hardship have exacerbated the problem, with one in three Kenyan women experiencing sexual violence before age 18. In response, the government has formed a special security unit to curb the violence and streamline justice. However, activists insist more comprehensive steps are needed, calling for stronger laws, faster prosecutions, and broader social reforms to protect women and girls.