Gender Inequality Blamed for Rising Domestic Violence in Samburu

Residents and women’s rights advocates in Maralal marked International Women’s Day with a march through the town, raising alarm over increasing cases of domestic violence in the county.

The march, organized by Samburu women and members of the County Gender Sector Working Group, aimed to draw attention to the growing number of Gender-Based Violence (GBV) and Intimate Partner Violence (IPV) cases reported in the region.

Speaking during the event, Albert Wanjohi said many women in the county fail to report domestic abuse due to stigma and the normalization of wife battering within some communities.

“Culture has made some women believe that being battered by their husbands is normal,” Wanjohi said. “We have recorded several IPV cases, including one where a woman was killed by her husband following a domestic quarrel, while another is recovering in hospital after being attacked with a machete.”

Patriarchal Culture Cited

Wanjohi noted that deep-rooted patriarchal traditions in Samburu have economically disadvantaged many women, contributing to increased vulnerability to abuse, sexual assault, and domestic violence.

He said the purpose of the International Women’s Day event was to sensitize women about their rights and encourage them to report abuse, emphasizing that while legal frameworks exist to protect victims, many cases remain unreported.

“Although laws are in place to address gender-based violence, reporting remains low because of fear, stigma, and cultural pressures,” he added.

Leaders Call for Education and Awareness

Also speaking at the event, Pauline Lenguris linked the problem to high levels of illiteracy in the county, which she said prevents many women from understanding and pursuing their rights.

Lenguris called for increased investment in education and awareness programs to empower women and help them access justice.

She urged local leaders, government agencies, and community organizations to work together to address gender inequality and protect women from violence.

Push for Community Action

Participants in the march said stronger community engagement, education campaigns, and support systems for survivors are needed to curb the growing problem.

They also called on authorities in Samburu County to strengthen protection mechanisms and ensure perpetrators of domestic violence are held accountable.

Activists said addressing gender inequality remains key to reducing domestic violence and ensuring women live free from fear and abuse.