Nelly Wanjiku, a 29-year-old from Kiambu County, is the latest victim, left with severe burns after her boyfriend poured boiling water on her face in a horrific attack.
The incident occurred on August 29, 2024, during what initially seemed like a routine evening. Wanjiku’s partner, angered over hunger, suddenly turned on her while she was warming food for him.
He escalated the situation by boiling water, which he then poured on Wanjiku, leaving her traumatised and disfigured.Despite the excruciating pain, Wanjiku’s first concern was for her child.
She urged her baby’s nanny to flee with her daughter, fearing further violence from her boyfriend, who followed her with a cold, emotionless demeanor.This case highlights the growing epidemic of gender-based violence in Kenya and across Africa.
According to the Africa Data Hub, at least 500 women have been victims of femicide in Kenya between 2016 and 2023.
As Wanjiku embarks on a long road to recovery, her story adds to the grim statistics of women irreparably harmed by domestic violence.
Reflecting on her ordeal, she expressed gratitude for her survival but acknowledged the ongoing struggle: “I’m beginning to feel like myself again, but I know this journey is far from over.
By Nairobi