A Tragic Death That Exposes Kenya's Femicide Problem
Tiffany, who had returned to her hometown for a family funeral, was found murdered the next day, her body in two pieces. Her husband, Jackson Ololtele, now faces trial for her killing, though he denies the charges.
Her death highlights that even female police officers — supposedly protectors of justice — are not safe from domestic violence in Kenya. In 2024, femicide cases reached record highs, with 170 women killed. Early 2025 is showing equally grim statistics, with 129 deaths by March, though campaigners warn the true figures are likely higher due to poor data tracking.
Violence Inside and Outside the Force
Female police officers themselves are not protected from abuse spoke to officers who admitted that many women in the police force suffer in silence due to shame and stigma. Tiffany's own parents recalled how their daughter had been abused for years, but withdrew complaints due to emotional ties.
Officers interviewed revealed a culture of silence where even those manning gender desks — units meant to handle domestic abuse reports — have been victims themselves. Some endured sexual harassment by seniors, others suffered domestic violence, but feared professional and social shame if they spoke up.
Too Few Female Officers, Fewer Safe Spaces
Women make up only 6.9% of Kenya's police force, and declining numbers mean many gender desks are handled by male officers, making it hard for victims to report abuse. Campaigners say this gap erodes public trust.
Gender desk officers themselves admit to being overwhelmed and under-supported, dealing with multiple distressing cases daily without enough mental health resources.
Empty Promises or Real Change?
Kenyan leaders have made promises to fight femicide, but critics point to ongoing police brutality against women protesters and a lack of follow-through. Activists like Njeri Wa Migwi argue the government should declare femicide a national disaster, similar to the country's past response to HIV/AIDS.
President William Ruto acknowledged systemic failures in preventing and responding to gender-based violence, but grieving families like Tiffany's want more than words. Her father, Roy Wanyonyi, called for urgent action, saying, "Women and girls are being slaughtered… it leaves scars on innocent people."
Kenya's femicide crisis continues to expose deep-rooted cultural issues and institutional failures that even those within law enforcement cannot escape.
