#Wearenotsafe…Behind every number, a story, and every story…! KNOB Digital unveils its Findings on Femicide.

#Wearenotsafe…Behind every number, a story, and every story…! KNOB Digital unveils its Findings on Femicide.

“Behind every number, there is a story, and behind every story, there is a woman who deserves justice.” – Say NO – UNITE to End Violence against Women

In the beautiful coastal region of Kilifi, Kenya, a horrifying crime is silently tormenting the lives of countless women. Femicide, which refers to the intentional murder of women based on their gender, has emerged as a distressing issue. This blog aims to go deep into the disturbing reality of femicide in Kilifi, shedding light on its causes, consequences, and the urgent need for collective action.

KNOB Digital, the leading digital marketing company in Kilifi and the coastal region has partnered with local organizations, NGOs like Moving The Goal Post, and activists to launch campaigns to end violence against women. Through these campaigns, we aim to raise awareness about femicide, the intentional killing of women because of their gender. We believe that by educating the community about this issue, we can work towards preventing such acts of violence. Together, we can work towards a future where every woman in Kilifi can live without fear of violence and injustice.

Femicide is an unfortunate reality that demands our attention. Kilifi has witnessed a surge in cases of femicide, leaving families devastated and communities traumatized. According to recent reports:

* Police found Rahab Karisa at her home in Majajani on July 11, 2023, with 15 stab and slash wounds. Rahab was Kilifi County’s Chief for Fisheries and Blue economy According to standard media

* Around six in the morning, residents of the Kwa Ndomo settlement in Magarini, Kilifi County, were surprised to discover the lifeless body of a middle-aged woman known only as Malkia.

From Citizen news

* Women aged between 20 and 45 are disproportionately targeted, accounting for 65% of femicide victims. This age group represents the majority of victims.

Femicide does not occur in isolation. It is deeply entrenched within socioeconomic, cultural, and systemic factors. Understanding these root causes is crucial in combating this prevailing issue:

According to the United Nations Entity for Gender Equality and the Empowerment of Women

Deep-rooted gender discrimination and patriarchal norms create an environment that is conducive to femicide. These societal factors perpetuate unequal power dynamics, limit women’s access to education, and contribute to economic disparity, all of which devalue women’s lives. High levels of poverty in Kilifi increase the vulnerability of women to femicide. Economic pressure often leads to strained relationships, which in turn increases the likelihood of violent outcomes. Additionally, limited economic opportunities hinder financial independence for women, leaving them more dependent on their partners.

Cultural beliefs and practices, such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage, play a significant role in perpetuating femicide in Kilifi. These harmful traditional practices leave women and girls vulnerable to violence. Furthermore, the normalization of violence against women within certain communities magnifies this issue. The absence of effective legal frameworks and justice systems in Kilifi creates an environment where perpetrators can continue to commit femicide with impunity. Insufficient investigation, limited resources, and a lack of accountability all contribute to the persistence of femicide in the region.

So how do we address this Crisis…

Education plays a critical role in challenging societal norms and dismantling deeply ingrained beliefs by promoting critical thinking, fostering empathy, and encouraging individuals to question and reevaluate their own biases. Comprehensive awareness campaigns on gender equality, consent, and the importance of upholding women’s rights can include initiatives such as educational workshops in schools, public service announcements on television and radio, social media campaigns, and community events that promote dialogue and understanding.

The creation of specialized courts to handle gender-based violence cases is crucial because they ensure that judges and legal professionals have the necessary expertise and sensitivity to address the unique complexities of these cases. This can lead to more effective and fair outcomes for survivors of gender-based violence. Programs that provide vocational training, entrepreneurship courses, access to microfinance loans, and mentorship opportunities can equip women and girls in Kilifi with the necessary education, skills, and economic opportunities to enhance their autonomy and reduce their vulnerability to femicide.

Support networks, such as helplines, shelters, and counseling services, are essential in protecting victims and providing safe spaces because they offer immediate assistance, emotional support, and practical resources to individuals experiencing gender-based violence. These networks can be lifelines for survivors, helping them escape abusive situations and begin the healing process. “Change will not come if we wait for some other person or some other time. We are the ones we’ve been waiting for. We are the change that we seek.” – Barack Obama