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In response to the increasing cases of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide, President William Samoei Ruto has established a Technical Working Group to address these issues.
This was officially announced through a gazette notice published on 10th January 2025.
The group is tasked with reviewing and strengthening Kenya’s response to these crimes, which have posed significant challenges to the country’s social fabric and gender equality efforts.
Rising Concerns over GBV and Femicide
The decision comes amidst growing public concern over the alarming rise in GBV and femicide cases in Kenya.
These crimes undermine fundamental human rights, including the right to life, freedom from discrimination, and access to justice, as guaranteed by the Constitution.
The president acknowledged the grave impact of these acts, which harm individuals, disrupt families, strain national security, and hinder sustainable development.
Composition of the Technical Working Group
The group will be chaired by Dr. Nancy Baraza and includes experts from various fields, including legal professionals, human rights activists, and social scientists.
Notable members include LSK President Faith Odhiambo, Dr. Ruth Aura Odhiambo, Linah Kilimo, Dr. Linda Musumba, and Wangu Kanja, among others.
A joint secretariat led by Caroline Jerono Kibiwott and Jessica Achieng Omundo will provide administrative support.
Key Responsibilities
The group has been assigned specific responsibilities, including:
Identifying trends and hotspots contributing to GBV and femicide.
Analysing the effectiveness of current laws and policies.
Proposing legislative amendments and resource allocation strategies.
Conducting community engagements to gather insights and foster collaboration.
Evaluating psychological, social, and economic factors contributing to these crimes.
Examining the role of media in shaping public awareness and policymaking.
The team will also provide actionable recommendations to improve survivor support systems, strengthen investigations, and enhance prosecution mechanisms.
Timeline and Reporting
The Technical Working Group has been given 90 days to complete its review and submit a comprehensive report to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki.
The report will be channelled through the Principal Secretary for Gender, who heads an oversight committee comprising senior government officials.
President Ruto’s Commitment
President Ruto reiterated Kenya’s commitments under international treaties, including the Maputo Protocol and the United Nations Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination Against Women (CEDAW).
These frameworks obligate the government to prevent and respond to violence against women and girls.
The establishment of the Technical Working Group signals the government’s intent to tackle GBV and femicide with a holistic and strategic approach.
The public is encouraged to participate actively by sharing their views and experiences as part of the ongoing effort to create a safer and more equitable society.