Principal Secretary in the Ministry of Gender and Affirmative Action, Ann Wang’ombe, has voiced her concerns over the alarming rise in gender-based violence (GBV) incidents, particularly femicide, in the Mt Kenya region. Addressing mourners in Othaya Constituency, Nyeri County, during the burial of a relative, Wang’ombe highlighted that while men are affected by GBV, women have borne the brunt of these violent acts.
The PS pointed out that femicide has become a leading menace in the region, contributing to an escalating pattern of violence against women. She emphasized the need for urgent interventions to curb these rising incidents. One of the key contributors to the violence, according to Wang’ombe, is the harmful perception that women are “lesser” human beings. She called on parents and church leaders to help change this narrative and sensitize men about the equality of women.
“We need to work together to address this issue. Church leaders and parents play a pivotal role in changing societal attitudes that contribute to gender violence,” she said. Wang’ombe’s remarks come in the wake of a worrying rise in femicide cases in the country, which peaked in 2024, prompting protests by women across the nation demanding action against the killings.
The PS appealed to married couples to resolve their differences amicably rather than resorting to violence. “Life belongs to God, and no one should take away another’s life,” Wang’ombe urged. She encouraged couples facing irreconcilable issues to separate peacefully, without causing harm.
In her address, Wang’ombe also highlighted the availability of government initiatives, such as the Women Enterprise Fund (WEF) and the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), urging people to register and take advantage of these opportunities for empowerment and development.
With femicide and GBV cases rising across the country, Wang’ombe’s call for community involvement, especially from church and family leaders, underscores the urgent need for collaborative efforts to address this societal crisis.
