Mental illness a huge factor in rising femicide and GBV cases - Dr Kibosia

Former CEO of the Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital in Eldoret Dr John Kibosia has weighed in on the increased cases of femicide and gender-based violence saying state actors must move in to arrest the situation.

Dr Kibosia who spoke at a forum in Eldoret on Wednesday said the killings had received overwhelming concern from Catholic bishops and other clergy indicating that the problem was getting out of control. 

He says a combination of factors is to blame for the worsening situation.

“Mental health issues are one of the factors contributing to this. As someone who has worked in the area of public health and Criminal justice systems in Kenya, I believe there is need for an action strategy that will involve specialists and collective action to tame the cases," he said.

Dr Kibosia noted that adverse mental health conditions which are not treated had reached critical conditions in the country.

This, he said, was caused by depression, anxiety, and personality disorders which he said tend to invite aggressive or impulsive outbursts or reactions.

Other contributing factors he said include substance and drug abuse, trauma, stress and stigma with most victims failing to access necessary assistance.

Dr Kibosia noted that there was a need to alleviate the mental health issues that contribute to femicide with a comprehensive strategy that incorporates specialists and hence the need to train more professionals like psychiatrists and psychologists along with enhancing counselling services.

He also highlighted the role of religious leaders in promoting awareness, offering support and lobbying for policy change.

Kibosia asked the government to deal with femicide as a public health concern.

He said they should also improve mental illness resources, fight drug and alcohol abuse and enhance support for those affected. 

He says the killing of women in Kenya, commonly referred to as femicide is a pointer to a larger psychological and moral decay in the society.

He said it is time strategic measures are put in place to make sure Kenyans are safe and all women are treated with the respect they deserve.