Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has called for the establishment of a dedicated police unit within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) to address the increasing cases of femicide in Kenya.

The Governor highlighted the urgency of forming this unit within the DCI's current framework, emphasizing that it would play a crucial role in investigating and curbing the ongoing violence against women.

Speaking at a thanksgiving service at St. Mary’s ACK Church Ngariama in Gichugu Sub-County, Waiguru condemned the rising femicide, describing it as the "most extreme manifestation of violence against women."

She stressed that while the formation of a special police unit is vital, a long-term solution to prevent the killings of women and girls must also be found.

“The widely-reported discovery of killings of women across the country are shocking and highlight an ever-worsening national femicide crisis,” she remarked.

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Waiguru’s comments come as Kenya observes the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, a global campaign aimed at raising awareness and combating violence against women.

The Governor further urged all government agencies to take swift action to address the growing crisis.

“We thank the President because he has taken some action and we are also asking for a long-term solution to these issues and a comprehensive assessment of what going on in our society needs," Waiguru said.

"The cause of these killings needs to be looked at so that we can reduce cases of femicide and gender-based violence."

In addition, Waiguru called for a multi-faceted response from the justice sector, urging the creation of special units within other relevant agencies to ensure justice for victims.

She also condemned the violent acts, stressing the need for police to act swiftly and hold perpetrators accountable.

“Gender-based violence has no place in our society, we are hoping during those 16 days of activism this coming week, we will have proposals and solutions that will give us a comprehensive plan that will provide us lasting solutions to the femicide and gender-based violence,” Waiguru added.

On another note, Waiguru also took the opportunity to urge Members of the County Assembly (MCAs) to focus on fulfilling their promises to the electorate, rather than engaging in divisive politics.

She cautioned that internal divisions could hinder service delivery to the people, underscoring the importance of unity in governance.