First Lady calls for concerted efforts to combat GBV, femicide

First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto has urged nations to collaborate in addressing gender-based violence, femicide, human trafficking, and the risks posed by online exploitation of children. Ruto emphasized the need for a coordinated effort across government departments, society, and various institutions, including health, education, security, justice, civil society, faith groups, communities, employers, and financial entities.

She highlighted Kenya-Romania's partnership as a chance for both countries to exchange insights and create cooperative measures. The First Lady pointed out the evolving nature of human trafficking, with victims now being exploited in complex ways such as Southeast Asian cyber-scam operations, and called for more international coordination in prevention, rescue, repatriation, and prosecution.

She expressed concern over the surge in online child sexual abuse material reporting, which exceeded 46,000 cases in 2023, and emphasized the necessity of a holistic approach to safeguarding children in the digital realm. Ruto stressed the importance of employers and financial institutions in combating exploitation by flagging suspicious activities and dismantling financial networks linked to human trafficking.

In tackling gender-based violence and femicide, Kenya has made notable strides in raising awareness and initiating actions. The government created a Presidential Technical Working Group in 2025 to identify legislative and enforcement challenges and propose enhanced strategies for prevention, investigation, and survivor support. Kenya's National Police Service has intensified its focus on femicide and missing persons cases, and the toll-free GBV helpline (1195) remains available 24/7 for counseling, medical care referrals, shelters, and legal aid.

Ruto affirmed that these advancements underscored the significance of ongoing partnerships and accountability in resolving these issues. Romanian Ambassador to Kenya, Gentiana Șerbu, confirmed Romania's dedication to collaboratively working with Kenya to address these challenges. Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture, the Arts, and Heritage, Hanna Wendot Cheptumo, acknowledged Kenya's efforts in confronting these threats, while Deputy Speaker of the National Assembly, Gladys Shollei, stressed the critical need for collective action to ensure the proper execution of current laws.

Shollei urged the media to not only report on cases of abuse and exploitation but to also actively denounce such behaviors.