By Rose Maina.
As I tuned in to Citizen television the other day, a chilling story unfolded before my eyes. A middle-aged woman, brutally attacked by her own husband – stabbed and scalded with hot water, left clinging to life as he cowardly vanished into hiding. The shocking incident unraveled in Kayole estate, a stark reminder of the grim reality faced by countless women in Kenya.
Gender-based violence (GBV) has entrenched itself as a sinister force, with women bearing the brunt of brutality at the hands of their husbands or boyfriends. What struck me as I delved into the disheartening litany of GBV cases was a disconcerting pattern. Families of these victims, including parents, often acknowledge the persistent torment in their daughters' lives. The question looms – why the silence? Why do we wait until our daughters are on the brink of death before confronting the harsh truth?
In Kenya, the dynamics of relationships, unlike some Western counterparts, are influenced by traditions such as bride price or dowry. This age-old practice, while rooted in cultural significance, has inadvertently contributed to viewing women as possessions. The consequence? Women are dealt with as objects to be owned and controlled, fostering an environment where violence thrives. In some instances, Kenyan parents, once they receive the bride price, may resist allowing the woman to leave, even in cases of violence, creating additional challenges for women seeking safety.
It's time to break the silence, challenge the norms, and confront the uncomfortable truths. The story of that woman in Kayole is not isolated; it echoes the silent cries of countless others. Let's unmask the reality of GBV, recognizing it as the harrowing precursor to femicide in Kenya. It's time to shatter the silence and stand against the cultural norms that perpetuate such violence against women. The first step begins with acknowledging the problem – a problem that demands our collective voice and action.
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