Kenya’s Say No to Femicide Movement Gains Momentum
In a powerful call to action against gender-based violence, the ‘Say No to Femicide in Kenya Movement’ (SNF) has officially launched, with hundreds of advocates joining forces to combat femicide and promote a safer environment for women.
The movement was initiated by Kate Kirui, a passionate advocate for gender equality and the founder of the Green Circle Foundation. Known for her work in both gender justice and climate activism, Kirui has united a coalition of activists, community leaders, and concerned citizens in the fight to end the killing of women and girls in Kenya.
At the heart of the movement is a powerful message: “Lugha ni MOJA-ACTION!” which translates to “One language—Action!” This phrase encapsulates the movement’s call for collective action, emphasizing that it is not enough to talk about femicide—now is the time to act.
“I am deeply moved by the growing support for this cause. This isn’t just about raising awareness; it’s about creating real change. We need every voice, every individual, to take a stand against the systemic violence that threatens women every day,” said Kirui during the launch event. “Together, we can push for legal reforms, demand justice, and hold perpetrators accountable. But most importantly, we need to create a society where every woman feels safe—where femicide is no longer an option.”
The movement comes at a time when femicide rates in Kenya continue to rise, with cases of women being killed by intimate partners or family members frequently making headlines. While femicide remains a devastating issue, the SNF movement is determined to change the narrative, making it clear that femicide will no longer be tolerated.
Advocates of the movement emphasize the need for both individual and institutional action. “It’s about more than just calling out violence; it’s about holding the justice system accountable, ensuring that policies are implemented to protect women, and dismantling the societal norms that perpetuate violence,” said one of the movement’s key partners.
Participants in the SNF initiative have committed to engaging in nationwide campaigns to raise awareness, provide educational resources, and advocate for stronger legal frameworks. The movement’s slogan, “Know it, Name it, Stop it!” encourages people to identify the signs of gender-based violence early and take immediate action.
As Kirui emphasized, “This is a movement that needs to be impossible to ignore. Together, we will raise our voices until every woman in Kenya can live without fear.”