Pam Bondi must confront violence against women as attorney general

In Kenya, a significant increase in cases of sexual and gender-based violence has emerged, with more than 7,100 incidents reported since September 2023. This alarming trend has prompted the country's interior ministry to establish a special security team aimed at addressing the rising number of violence against women. The incidents have raised concerns among security officials, particularly highlighting Nairobi County as having the highest reports of such violence, while Samburu and Mandera counties recorded notably fewer. Human rights advocates emphasize that the true number of cases may be even greater due to underreporting, especially in lower-income areas plagued by poverty and associated violence. The gravity of the situation is reflected in horrifying personal accounts, such as that of Sarah Wambui, who suffered a brutal attack by her husband. She endured 38 stab wounds, affecting multiple internal organs, and has been struggling for safety as her attacker remains free and continues to threaten her. These personal stories are part of a wider narrative that underscores the ongoing dangers faced by women in the country. Just two weeks ago, public protests erupted in response to these issues, but the authorities' violent dispersal of demonstrators, using tear gas and arrests, has only served to infuriate human rights organizations and women’s groups, further spotlighting widespread dissatisfaction with the government's handling of violence against women. Foreign Affairs Minister and acting Interior Minister Musalia Mudavadi stressed the need for attention toward this crisis, as the number of cases grows. He mentioned that the Directorate of Criminal Investigation is actively involved in the investigation of murders—specifically noting that there have been 100 documented cases of murdered women since August 2024. However, the majority of these cases are still pending in court. This slow judicial response has raised questions among advocates regarding the effectiveness of legal measures in protecting women and ensuring justice for victims. The broader context reveals deeply entrenched patriarchal attitudes and a system lacking adequate protection measures for women, contributing factors highlighted by human rights defenders. Njoki Gachanja pointed out that many cases go unreported, particularly in impoverished communities where violence is prevalent. This ongoing crisis calls for urgent governmental interventions and a comprehensive approach to reversing the current trend of violence against women in Kenya, particularly as activists continue to demand justice and effective measures to thwart future abuses.