The tragic killing of 17-year-old Farida Kadzo, a survivor of sexual violence, who was brutally attacked in Madina, Kilifi County, has been condemned by rights groups as a clear case of femicide.
Kadzo, who had previously survived a 2021 defilement case, was reportedly stabbed by her alleged boyfriend after she refused to accompany him to a family event. She succumbed to her injuries shortly after reaching home.
International Justice Mission (IJM) Kenya has strongly condemned the attack and is calling for urgent action by the justice system.
Speaking in Mombasa, Aggrey Juma, Senior Manager for Violence Against Women and Children (VAWC) at IJM, said that the suspect is currently in custody at Mtwapa Police Station and that investigations are ongoing. He also highlighted the broader implications of the case.
“Kadzo’s life mattered. Her story must not end in silence. Let this tragedy be a turning point in the fight against femicide and all forms of violence against women and children,” he added.
READ ALSO:
Teachers urged to encourage learners participation in co-curricular activities
The organisation has dismissed early reports framing the killing as a result of a “love triangle,” insisting instead that the focus must remain on gender-based violence and the repeated failures to protect survivors.
In a strongly worded statement, IJM said: “We are devastated by the tragic death of 17-year-old Farida Kadzo, a sexual violence survivor who was fatally attacked in Kilifi County on June 6, 2025.
This is not a story of a ‘love triangle’—it is a story of gender-based violence and the failure to protect survivors. Farida’s death is a painful reminder that femicide is real and must be urgently addressed.
We urge the justice system to respond swiftly and the public to support survivors. Farida’s life mattered. Her story must drive lasting change.”
A post-mortem is scheduled to take place in Kilifi as investigations continue.
By Joseph Mambili
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
>>> Click here to stay ahead with the latest national news.
