Valerie

Portrait of Valerie, a Kenyan student living in Kraków.
Valerie Otieno visited my photo studio to create a portrait in support of the #EndFemicideKE campaign – an initiative raising awareness about the alarming rise in femicide cases in Kenya.

In recent months, the country has been facing a wave of gender-based violence. Between August and October 2024 alone, at least 97 women were reportedly killed in gender-related attacks. In response, thousands of people took to the streets in cities like Nairobi, Mombasa, and Lodwar, demanding decisive action from the government.

The #EndFemicideKE campaign has since gained renewed momentum, resonating deeply with both local and international communities, and underscoring the urgent need for real and sustained efforts to protect women.
This image was widely shared by independent organisations in Kenya, amplifying the message across borders.