Kenya's Kilifi Region Plagued by Witchcraft Accusations, Land Grabs, and Violence Against Elders
In Kenya's coastal Kilifi region, home to over 1.4 million people, a grim wave of violence has been sweeping through villages. Accusations of witchcraft, fuelled by deep-rooted beliefs and greed, have led to the displacement of many residents over the age of 50 and the tragic loss of over 160 lives since 2020.
The Global Sisters Report has uncovered a disturbing trend where misfortunes, such as illnesses, infertility, or joblessness, are often blamed on elders, particularly widows who own land. These accusations are frequently used as a means to seize land or eliminate individuals from inheritance chains. Between 2020 and May 2022, a shocking 138 elders were killed in Kilifi due to these accusations, with the number rising to over 160 cases as of now. Even after being declared innocent through traditional tests, survivors like Kavumbi Mamanga face ongoing threats and land grabbing.
The Kilifi region's escalating violence against elders, driven by superstition and greed, demands urgent attention. With over 160 deaths and thousands displaced, the need for robust intervention is clear. Organizations like HelpAge Kenya are on the frontline, providing support and shelter to victims. However, concerted efforts from local authorities, community leaders, and international bodies are crucial to end this cycle of violence and ensure the safety and dignity of Kilifi's elderly population.
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