Kisumu County Governor Prof. Anyang’ Nyong’o has publicly addressed the recent rise in femicides, proposing a new regulatory framework for Airbnb’s and other short-term rentals as a measure to curb the crime.
According to a recent public statement, the Kisumu governor linked the increase in violence against women to the anonymity afforded by unregulated short-term accommodations in the county.
The governor’s proposal, as outlined in the statement, does not call for a ban on Airbnbs. Instead, it seeks to establish a management system that would require all such premises to register with the county government.
This would ensure their locations are known. Additionally, the governor suggested that these accommodations should be required to maintain clear records of their occupants, arguing that the current “mysterious” nature of these rentals can facilitate criminal activity and hinder police investigations.
This position aligns with recent reports indicating action by the Kisumu County government to address rising insecurity. In a move to tame crime, Kisumu City Manager Abala Wanga had ordered the temporary closure of all Airbnbs in the city.
The order requires all operators to re-register their premises, with new licenses on meeting security requirements such as being in a secure neighborhood, having a visitors’ registration desk, security guards, and CCTV cameras.
This crackdown is part of a broader security initiative targeting various establishments and is aimed at monitoring operations believed to accommodate criminals.
The governor’s comments, as presented in the video, are a part of this larger conversation on how to enhance security and public safety in Kisumu County.
By Edwin Githinji
