Renowned Kenyan rapper, Scar Mkadinali of the hip-hop group Wakadinali, has ignited a firestorm of criticism after sharing what many consider to be an insensitive perspective on the pressing issue of femicide currently gripping the nation.
Taking to his Instagram page, Scar, whose real name is Churchill Mandela, seemed to lay blame on femicide cases on women’s singlehood. He suggested that women should marry early, by the age of 23, to avoid the risks associated with going to ‘Airbnbs and clubs.’
“One way of reducing femicide is by advising our women to get married by the age of 23 yrs. Married women rarely go to Airbnbs and clubs. This is not rocket science, come on!” he posted.
However, Scar’s viewpoint quickly faced a wave of backlash, with many challenging the rapper’s reasoning. Critics pointed out that even married women have become victims of femicide in numerous cases across the country.
Social media users joined the chorus of disapproval, with one remarking, “Next time educate yourself first before you give ignorant takes on things beyond your scope. It is better to shut up than say nonsense like this. Shame on you!”
Critics also resurrected Scar’s past lyrics, notably a line from the popular song ‘Geri Inengi’ that translates to “we don’t need permission to touch,” linking his lyricism to what they perceive as warped views on women.
As Kenya grapples with an alarming rise in femicide cases, the public outcry against such insensitive perspectives remains a crucial part of the ongoing dialogue. On January 27, citizens from over 11 counties took to the streets in the ‘End Femicide’ march, urging the government to prioritize and address the escalating crisis of women’s murders across the nation.
