Nairobi is emerging as the epicenter of child hostility and abuse in Kenya, with an alarming 16,855 cases reported in 2023-24, according to a recent report by the National Council of Administration of Justice. Of the 117,602 cases of violence against children recorded nationwide, Nairobi accounts for the largest share, spotlighting the city’s growing challenges in ensuring child safety.
The report paints a grim picture of the state of child welfare in Kenya. Across the country, children face various forms of violence, including physical, sexual, and emotional abuse. Harmful cultural practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM) and child marriage remain persistent, alongside newer challenges like online exploitation, trafficking, substance abuse, radicalization, and hazardous labor.
Counties Following Nairobi’s Grim Lead
While Nairobi leads in child violence cases, other counties are also grappling with significant numbers. Kiambu recorded 9,660 cases, followed by Nakuru with 5,377 and Machakos with 5,432. Kakamega reported 4,171 cases, while Bungoma (3,712), Kisumu (3,708), and Murang’a (3,655) also featured prominently.
Conversely, Samburu and Marsabit had the lowest reported cases, with 376 and 486, respectively. However, experts caution that these figures may reflect underreporting due to limited access to reporting mechanisms and social stigma in rural areas.
Emotional and Psychological Toll on Victims
The report underscores the immense emotional and psychological toll of violence on children. About 46% of affected children underwent professional counseling to help them cope with the trauma. Other interventions included police diversion, judicial orders, and supervision through the courts.
Counseling has proven vital in helping children rebuild their lives, but the sheer volume of cases puts significant pressure on social support systems. Despite the efforts, many children still lack access to adequate care and long-term rehabilitation.
Boychild: Bearing the Brunt
Notably, the report highlights that boys are disproportionately affected by crime exposure. They often face unique challenges, including neglect in child protection initiatives and societal expectations that discourage them from seeking help. This disparity calls for targeted interventions to ensure that both boys and girls are adequately protected and supported.
Justice System’s Role
In addressing the crisis, the judiciary has been instrumental in resolving child-related cases. A total of 16,267 new cases were filed during the reporting period, with 16,119 resolved. The judiciary also marks November as Children’s Justice Month, raising awareness and mobilizing stakeholders to prioritize child rights and protection.
However, legal resolutions alone cannot address the root causes of violence against children. Community-based interventions, education campaigns, and stronger enforcement of child protection laws are essential in creating safe environments for children.
A Call for Urgent Action
The report serves as a wake-up call for Kenya to prioritize child protection. Authorities must ramp up efforts to prevent violence and address its root causes, such as poverty, lack of education, and harmful cultural practices. Parents, educators, and community leaders also have a critical role to play in fostering safe and supportive environments for children.
As Nairobi grapples with the highest cases of child abuse, the city’s leadership must spearhead innovative solutions, including strengthening social services, expanding access to counseling, and increasing public awareness about reporting mechanisms.
For Kenya to secure its future, protecting its youngest and most vulnerable citizens must be a top priority. The findings of this report highlight the urgent need for collective action to create a society where every child can grow up in safety and dignity.
