A disturbing video showing a young woman being violently attacked for refusing a forced marriage has sparked outrage across Narok County and beyond, highlighting the growing concerns over gender-based violence in pastoralist communities.
According to the reports, the woman identified as Millicent Semeita, believed to be in her mid-20s, was allegedly beaten by her relatives after declining to marry a man selected by her brothers and settling for a partner of her own choice, an act that reportedly infuriated her family.
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In the now-viral video, Semeita is seen being assaulted in what appears to be a homestead compound, while distressed voices can be heard in the background. The footage drew immediate public reaction, prompting local residents to rush to her aid.
“She was in terrible condition when we found her,” said Mary Lekeyian, a neighbour who helped escort Semeita to safety. “No one deserves to be treated this way for making a personal choice.”
She added that Semeita was first taken to a local dispensary before being transferred to Narok County Referral Hospital, where she is currently admitted. Hospital officials have confirmed she sustained serious injuries to various parts of her body but is now in stable condition.
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“We are monitoring her closely. The injuries were severe, but she is responding well to treatment,” said Dr. John Torome, a senior physician at the facility.
Police have since launched an investigation into the incident. Narok County Police Commander, Daniel Ngeno, confirmed that several individuals have been identified in connection with the attack.
“This is a clear case of gender-based violence and we are treating it with the urgency it deserves. No one is above the law,” said Commander Ngeno. “We urge anyone with additional information to come forward.”
The attack has reignited concerns about the prevalence of gender-based violence in pastoralist communities, where cultural expectations and forced marriages continue to undermine women’s rights.
“We are seeing a disturbing trend,” said Agnes Pariken, an activist with the Narok Women’s Rights Network. “Women are being punished for asserting their autonomy, and that must end. Communities must be held accountable for protecting—not harming—their daughters.”
Several rights organizations have condemned the incident and called for stronger legal protections for women, especially in rural and marginalized areas.
“We cannot continue to normalize violence in the name of tradition,” said Pariken. “Millicent’s case must be a turning point.”
As investigations continue, Semeita is receiving both medical care and psychological support. Her case is expected to be a test of how the justice system handles gender-based violence in Kenya’s pastoralist regions.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
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