President William Ruto has promised that the government will act on the findings and recommendations of a new report on gender-based violence (GBV), including femicide, describing the situation as deeply disturbing and unacceptable.
Speaking on Monday at State House in Nairobi during the official launch of the report, President Ruto said gender-based violence remains a serious national problem. He noted that while GBV affects people of all ages and genders, women and girls continue to suffer the most.
The report was prepared by the Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence, chaired by former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza. The President praised the task force for carrying out wide public consultations in all 47 counties and for listening to survivors, experts, community members, and institutions.
“This report is more than a technical document. It reflects the voices, fears, and hopes of Kenyans, especially survivors of gender-based violence,” President Ruto said.
Among the key recommendations in the report is a call for the government to declare gender-based violence, including femicide, a national crisis. The report also proposes stronger prevention measures, improved investigations and prosecutions through specialized police units, and legal and policy reforms to better protect survivors and hold offenders accountable.
President Ruto said the recommendations will be reviewed through existing government processes, including discussions at the Cabinet level and consultations with relevant ministries, departments, and agencies.
“Any proposed legal changes will follow the Constitution and go through Parliament,” he said.
The President stressed that violence against any Kenyan is unacceptable and goes against the Constitution, national values, and basic human dignity.
“Protecting life, dignity, and safety is not optional. It is a core responsibility of the State,” he said.
He added that ending gender-based violence requires collective action and called on families, religious leaders, community elders, security agencies, and citizens to help prevent abuse, report cases, and support survivors.
President Ruto concluded by urging all Kenyans to take responsibility in building a safer society where everyone can live free from violence and fear.
