Ruto Calls on Society to Raise Respectful Boys in Fight Against Femicide

President William Ruto has urged parents to play a more active role in raising boys with strong moral values to curb the rising cases of femicide in the country. 

Speaking during the State of the Nation Address on Thursday, November 21, Ruto emphasized the importance of instilling respect and equality in boys from an early age to prevent gender-based violence in the future.

“It is time for each of us to do our part in raising boys into morally upright men who will never need to affirm their masculinity at the expense of women,” he said.

The president reinforced his commitment to gender equality, stating, “Women are not second-class citizens.”

To tackle femicide comprehensively, Ruto revealed that he had engaged women leaders in discussions and assigned Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua to spearhead a multi-sectoral approach to addressing the crisis.

“I have held discussions with other leaders in government and tasked the Deputy President to facilitate collaborative, broad-based deliberations and recommend effective, radically affirmative actions within six months,” Ruto announced.

Ruto’s remarks come a day after he met with female leaders to address the alarming femicide cases gripping the nation. During that meeting, the president assured that the government is determined to ensure perpetrators are prosecuted to the fullest extent of the law.

"The government, in its women’s agenda, is explicitly committed to ending all forms of violence. As leaders, we are united in ensuring justice is swift and efficient," Ruto said on Wednesday.

Support for Activism Against Gender-Based Violence

In a bid to bolster ongoing efforts, Ruto announced that the government has allocated Ksh100 million to support the 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, an annual campaign beginning Monday, November 25. This year’s campaign, themed Safe Homes, Safe Spaces, aims to educate communities on recognizing signs of abuse, understanding its causes, and providing resources to victims.

“I urge every Kenyan to join this movement to speak out, educate, and stand united against femicide. Together, we can create safer communities for everyone,” he stated, calling on citizens to participate actively in the campaign.

The president’s call for unity in addressing femicide comes at a critical time as Kenya grapples with a disturbing trend of gender-based violence. His remarks highlight a firm government stance on ensuring justice and fostering a society that prioritizes equality and respect.