Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has urged the establishment of a specialized police unit under the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to tackle the alarming rise in femicide cases across the country.
Governor Waiguru described femicide as the gravest form of violence against women and emphasized the urgent need for a long-term solution to protect women and girls from escalating violence.
Speaking during a thanksgiving service at St. Mary’s ACK Church Ngariama in Gichugu Sub-County, Waiguru condemned the shocking reports of femicide across Kenya, describing it as a deepening national crisis. She called on all government agencies to act swiftly to curb the trend.
“We appreciate the President’s initial actions, but we are also calling for a lasting solution and a comprehensive assessment of the root causes of these killings. Addressing the underlying issues is critical to reducing cases of femicide and gender-based violence,” Waiguru stated.
As Kenya observes the 16 Days of Activism against Gender-Based Violence, Waiguru stressed the need for collective action to reverse the crisis and secure justice for victims.
“Gender-based violence has no place in our society. During this week of activism, we hope to develop proposals and solutions that will lead to a comprehensive plan for eradicating femicide and gender-based violence,” she added.
President William Ruto has recently tasked Deputy President Prof. Kithure Kindiki with facilitating multi-sectoral discussions and delivering effective, affirmative actions within six months to address the issue.
