Human rights activists in Kericho County took to the streets on Tuesday, December 10, to mark International Human Rights Day with peaceful demonstrations highlighting the rising cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide. Organized under the theme “Our Rights, Our Future, Right Now,” the event drew hundreds of participants from various civil society organizations.
Rising Cases of GBV and Femicide
Emmy Nekesa, Kericho County Coordinator of the End Femicide KE Movement, revealed distressing statistics, noting over 963 reported GBV cases in the county this year. Victims, primarily women and girls aged between 18 and 49, have suffered numerous forms of violence, including:
- Sexual violence: Rape, incest, and harassment.
- Physical violence: Assault using weapons, hot water, and acid.
- Psychological violence: Stalking and doxing.
“Femicide is the most extreme form of gender-based violence, and it’s a crisis we cannot ignore,” said Nekesa.
Protestors’ Demands
The activists called for urgent measures to address the growing GBV crisis, including:
- Declaring femicide a national crisis: Activists want emergency responses akin to those for national disasters.
- Establishing a Commission: A proposed commission on the elimination of femicide composed of national, African, and international feminists (60% women, 40% men).
- Specialized GBV Courts: Human Rights Defender Salim Barnabas urged the judiciary to create courts exclusively for GBV cases and to classify femicide as a distinct crime in the criminal code.
“Women must be respected and protected. We are saying NO to Gender-Based Violence and Femicide,” said Barnabas.
County Government’s Commitment
Dr. Japhet Cheruiyot, Kericho County Health Services Chief Officer, announced plans to establish a GBV Rescue Center to support victims with counseling and rehabilitation after medical treatment. He assured that:
- Free GBV diagnosis and treatment is already being offered across hospitals in the county.
- A dedicated center would help victims recover emotionally and physically.
Broader Advocacy
The demonstrations marked the conclusion of the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign advocating for accountability and urgent action to end GBV.
As the activists chanted slogans and carried placards, their unified call resonated: It is time for society to respect, protect, and uphold the rights of women and girls.
