Kenya is witnessing a concerning surge in sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) cases, prompting urgent calls for action from both state and non-state actors in the gender sector. Authorities emphasize the need for a coordinated response to curb the alarming trend.
During a visit to the Nanyuki Policare an integrated center for preventing and addressing SGBV Deputy Inspector General of the Administrative Police Service, Gilbert Masengeli, highlighted shocking statistics. He revealed that 13% of women and 34% of men have experienced sexual and physical violence since the age of 15. Additionally, the country recorded 578 femicide cases last year, an 8% increase from the previous year.
Masengeli reaffirmed the National Police Service’s (NPS) commitment to fighting gender-based violence. He announced plans to establish gender desks in all 47 counties, ensuring improved response mechanisms and support for survivors. Furthermore, police stations will undergo structural and operational reforms to enhance the professional handling of SGBV cases.
Laikipia Governor Joshua Irungu pointed to limited resources as a key factor placing women at greater risk of SGBV. He called for increased funding to sustain gender-focused programs. The Nanyuki Policare center, established in 2024, has already documented 500 cases of domestic violence, sexual assault, and emotional abuse. Out of these, 200 cases have been resolved, while 50 remain under investigation, with another 50 survivors receiving legal aid and counseling.
Jaki Mbogo, Chief of Party for the REINVENT Programme, stressed the financial burden of treating and addressing SGBV cases. According to the Gender and Equality Commission, processing a single case costs approximately Ksh. 44,000, leading many victims to abandon the pursuit of justice. The REINVENT Programme, a five-year initiative, aims to strengthen Kenya’s ability to tackle inter-communal conflicts, violence against women and girls, and election-related violence.
British High Commissioner to Kenya, Neil Wigan, reiterated the UK Government’s commitment to supporting SGBV victims and lauded the National Police Service’s efforts in safeguarding vulnerable groups. The Nanyuki Policare facility, built at a cost of Ksh. 9 million, stands as a beacon of hope for survivors, integrating judicial officers, clinicians, counselors, and police officers under one roof to provide comprehensive support.
