A lobby group has raised concern about the increasing number of men being battered by their wives in Central Kenya.
Some of the victims sustain injuries which they hide under their clothes for fear of being noticed by family members or fellow men. Others live in constant anxiety, knowing their wives are waiting for them at home — whether they return with bread or empty-handed.
The Voice of Men and Children Network (Vomec) says the trend is alarming, with many young men now fearing marriage after witnessing cases of abuse.
Vomec national chairman Bishop James Njenga said reports from men visiting their offices show that such cases are on the rise.
“We have a problem because most men do not report. However, a few brave ones seek advice on how to handle family matters and end up revealing that they are often beaten,” he said.
He added that some of the men live under constant threats and are forced to perform household chores out of fear.
“Some wash utensils, cook supper at night, and wake up very early to prepare breakfast for the family. They live with many threats,” he said.
Njenga further noted that some men are denied conjugal rights despite sharing the same bed with their wives.
Speaking in Limuru town after meeting other Vomec officials, Bishop Njenga said the organization plans to hold seminars in various areas to educate the community that marital conflicts should not be resolved through violence or threats.
He revealed that the group will begin its outreach in Ndeiya and Limuru sub-counties before expanding to other regions.
“We intend to work closely with the government so that whenever public barazas are held, we can be invited to address the public on peaceful coexistence in marriage,” he said.
Njenga said Vomec will approach chiefs, assistant chiefs, and deputy county commissioners to support their awareness campaign since they interact with the public daily.
Vomec secretary Josphat Njagi added that the group also plans to partner with religious leaders to offer counseling to married couples.
“If our churches allow us, we have a program where we shall counsel married couples,” he said.
Njagi noted that Vomec has a team of professional counsellors, lawyers, police officers, and pastors from different churches to support their initiative.
