Femicide is the intentional killing of a woman or a girl by a man with a gender-related motive. Africa is one of the regions that is most affected by this. In 2022 it accounted for just under half the 48,000 victims worldwide, according to a UN report.
In Kenya, the situation is getting worse. Its National Crime Research Centre says two women are killed in the country every day. Some organisations, such as Africa Hub, estimate there are three femicides a week. Getting exact figures is difficult but in January a huge demonstration took place in Nairobi to protest against what is happening.
Traditional and cultural attitudes that value men over women are being blamed. So are policies and regulatory laws on women’s rights, victim blaming, capitalist system exploitation and appropriation of women’s bodies. We put together an all-female panel to discuss the shocking trend and what cautionary measures women can take. It’s a crucial topic. Give us your views on what can and should be done.