President William Ruto has appointed Citizen TV investigative journalist Franklin Wallah and Law Society of Kenya (LSK) President Faith Odhiambo to a 34-member task force that will investigate the rise in Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and femicide cases.
In a special gazette notice issued on Friday, the President outlined that the task force would assess, review, and recommend measures to strengthen existing policies and systems aimed at eliminating GBV and femicide.
He noted that these issues continue to inflict physical and emotional harm on victims and their families, who are left grappling with the actions of perpetrators while seeking justice.
“There are existing gaps in prevention, response, investigations, prosecution, data management, and survivor support systems in GBV and femicide cases,” the gazette notice stated.
“Such grave violations pose a threat to our national security and strain the social fabric of the nation.”
Former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza has been tasked with chairing the task force, which also includes Nairobi Women’s Hospital founder Dr. Sam Thenya, Mohammed Washala, Ruth Aura, Linah Kilimo, Edna Ngare, Nobert Talam, Linda Musumba, Anthony Nzioki, Anne Ngetich, Wangu Kanja, Bashir Isaak, Susan Ndanyi, Gloria Wawira, and Seth Masese.
Former Deputy Chief Justice Nancy Baraza.
The task force will review ongoing cases, gather written submissions from the public, and collaborate with the National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) to carry out its mandate.
The group is expected to complete its report within 90 days, submitting it to Deputy President Kithure Kindiki through the Gender Principal Secretary.
Wallah has been at the forefront of reporting on the recent surge in femicide cases, including the murders of social influencer Starlet Wahu and university student Rita Waeni, among others.
The rising number of femicide cases has become a national crisis, with female bodies being discovered in body bags across the country.
According to Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat, authorities have recorded at least 97 femicide cases over the past three months.
LSK President Faith Odhiambo.
In November 2024, President Ruto launched a 16-day campaign of activism to raise awareness and call for an end to violence against women.
