The office of the Director of Public Prosecution has revealed that it has registered over 1,274 cases involving child defilement across the Coast region.

The office also indicated that there are 493 pending cases from last year and 393 are still pending this year, adding that there is a need for concerted efforts in addressing the issue that leaves many women and children traumatising.

Speaking during a workshop organized by International Justice Mission (IJM) in Diani, Kwale County, Deputy Director of Public Prosecution Hassan Abdi said the offences were registered in 2023 and 2024 with Kwale County taking the lead.

He called for a strong collaboration between journalists and different stakeholders so as to protect the rights of women and children.

Substantial evidence Abdi said numerous gender-based violence cases fail to progress due to a lack of substantial evidence collected during the investigation.

“The strength and success of sexual violence cases in court usually rely on evidence gathered during investigations. If the investigation fails to table crucial evidence then chances are very high for such cases to be dropped,” he said.

Taking an example from the journalist, he said that their investigative skills and access to various information, can uncover details that can be immediately apparent to law enforcement whereas police officers, with their legal authorities and training, can ensure that the evidence collected meets the legal framework required for prosecution