Governor Waiguru Urges Special Police Unit to Tackle Rising Femicide

• Nov 25, 2024

Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has called for the creation of a special police unit under the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to address the alarming rise in femicide cases across the country. Speaking on Sunday, November 24, in Gichugu, Kirinyaga, the governor emphasized the urgent need for a long-term solution to curb violence against women.

“We thank the president because he has taken some action, but we are also asking for a long-term solution to these issues,” Waiguru said. She stressed the importance of understanding the root causes of femicide and gender-based violence to develop effective measures for reducing such cases.

The governor’s remarks come ahead of the "16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence," a campaign announced by President William Ruto. The campaign, dubbed the "Safe Home, Safe Space Campaign," begins Monday, November 25, and will involve women leaders in government raising awareness about gender-based violence (GBV). The initiative aims to educate the public on recognizing warning signs of violence and provide information on safe spaces and support systems available for victims.

Governor Waiguru expressed hope that the campaign would result in actionable solutions to address femicide and other forms of GBV comprehensively. “Gender-based violence has no place in our society,” she stated, adding that the campaign offers a platform for generating proposals that could lead to lasting solutions.

President Ruto has directed law enforcement agencies to prioritize investigations into femicide cases and expedite justice for victims. He highlighted the critical role of public awareness and prevention in tackling GBV, urging leaders and communities to actively participate in the campaign.

Governor Waiguru also pointed out the shocking nature of recent femicide cases, reiterating the need for an in-depth assessment of societal issues fueling such violence. “A comprehensive evaluation of what is happening in our society is necessary. We must address the causes of these killings to ensure lasting solutions,” she noted.

As the nation prepares for the 16-day campaign, stakeholders hope it will inspire actionable change and reinforce the government's commitment to creating safer environments for women and girls. Governor Waiguru’s call for a dedicated police unit underscores the need for targeted efforts to combat femicide and restore safety in affected communities.