At Mama Phoebe Asiyo’s funeral, Governor Anyang’ Nyong’o dropped a well‑needed call: “We need stronger legislation around Airbnbs (short‑stay rentals) to cut down Kenya’s growing femicide rate. People are opening them left, right, and center without proper oversight.
His words hit hard, especially as Kenya faces multiple cases of femicide some of it linked to short‑term rentals.
Recently, Starlet Wahu Mwangi, a social media personality, was found stabbed to death in a South B short‑term rental in early January 2024.
The flat wasn’t listed with Airbnb, and the suspect was arrested.
Shortly after and days later, Rita Waeni, a 20‑year‑old student, was discovered dismembered in a bag after entering a Roysambu apartment scheduled through an unofficial short let booking.
These deaths weren’t isolated.
In reaction, FIDA‑Kenya declared femicide a national disaster.
The government responded, with Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo and counterparts launching a crackdown on unregistered short‑term rentals starting February 5, rental operators must register with the Tourism Regulatory Authority, or face penalties.
CS Moses Kuria also warned that many so-called “Airbnbs” are booked informally.
Governor Nyong’o’s words match the urgency of the moment. Without strict enforcement, it won’t matter how many protests we hold or laws we sign the predators keep finding ways.
Written by Michelle Amondi
