Dark Valentine Vigil in Nairobi

Hundreds of black people gathered in Nairobi for a “Dark Valentine” vigil to protest the rise in femicide cases in Kenya. Over 16 cases have been reported since the start of the year.

Students, including Merlin Kawira, a student and founder of Africa Arts and Mental Talks, gathered to commemorate the victims of femicide by lighting candles, chanting names of those killed, and holding red roses.

Debora Momanyi, a student and human rights activist, emphasized that love should not put people at risk for death. The Valentine’s Day protest follows thousands of anti-femicide demonstrations held in Kenya in January, which was the largest anti-femicide demonstration ever held in the country.