The rise of infamy:Unmasking Kenya's Dark Reality

Demonstrators in Nairobi

Late last month, Kenya witnessed a surge in femicides, igniting a nationwide outcry for justice and accountability. Thousands of demonstrators took to the streets, demanding an end to violence against women. But what lies beneath this alarming trend? How does murder intertwine with fame, and what does it reveal about our society?

The Airbnb Murders: A Shocking Wake-Up Call

Two high-profile killings, dubbed the “Airbnb murders,” sent shockwaves through the nation. These gruesome acts occurred within short-term rental apartments, casting a dark shadow over a platform that promises convenience and safety. One victim’s dismembered body was found in a bin, while another, 26-year-old Instagram influencer Scarlet Wahu, suffered multiple stab wounds. The government responded by tightening regulations in the short-term rental market, emphasizing the need for a secure environment for all individuals, regardless of gender

Beyond the Headlines: The Silent Epidemic

However, most femicides in Kenya do not unfold in vacation homes or at the hands of strangers. Instead, they occur within the confines of victims’ own homes, perpetrated by partners . These domestic killings rarely make headlines, yet they constitute around 80% of femicides in the country The Africa Data Hub’s research reveals chilling patterns: systematic abuse, often preceding the fatal act, leaves victims vulnerable. couples, driven by deep-seated misogynistic beliefs, perpetrate these crimes.

The Elusive Statistics

Reliable statistics on femicides remain elusive. The Kenyan government does not centrally collect data on these intentional killings of women. Criminal reports often lack sufficient information to classify a murder as femicide. However, media reports indicate over 500 cases between 2016 and 2023, a number likely far higher in reality.

Demanding Accountability

Organizers of the January 27 protests demand more than reactive state measures. They seek an accountable state—one that protects women and dismantles the toxic beliefs fueling violence. Njeri Migwi, founder of Usikimye (Swahili for “don’t be silent”), emphasizes that it’s not just about where the crime occurs; it’s about addressing the perpetrators’ deeply ingrained misogyny. Kenya needs systemic change, not just regulatory tweaks.

The Intimate Culprits

Africa Data Hub’s examination of available records reveals a disturbing truth: in two-thirds of femicide cases, the perpetrator is an intimate partner. Husbands top the list, followed by boyfriends. Marriage, often considered a private institution, becomes a breeding ground for violence. The cycle repeats, exposing a systemic issue that transcends individual incidents.