Kenya’s social institutions, culture and justice systems have been accused of contributing to the rise of gender-based violence (GBV).

Speaking during a public forum in Kibra, Nairobi on Wednesday, May 28, 2025, the Chairperson of the Technical Working Group on Gender-Based Violence Nancy Barasa, stated that the task force uncovered horrific levels of GBV, including femicide, child defilement, incest and sodomy.

“This is the last of the public participation sessions we are conducting, and Nairobi was our final stop. We have been around the country, and the information we’ve received is massive; we have uncovered what we didn’t anticipate,” she said.

Barasa, a former Deputy Chief, was appointed by President William Ruto via Gazette Notice No. 109 of January 10, 2025, to head the task force.

The group’s term was later extended by Gazette Notice No. 5047 on April 25, 2025.

Barasa emphasised that the nation is failing to protect its most vulnerable citizens, particularly children and women, from violent predators.

She reported widespread instances of defilement and sodomy affecting boys as young as three years old, often committed by relatives within their own homes.

She highlighted that cultural factors contribute to a climate of silence, shame, and impunity surrounding GBV.

“There’s a culture of silence around GBV. Reporting makes victims exiles, not just in the community, but within their own families. As a result, abuses continue unchecked,” she said.

The task force also documented alarming trends in femicide.  

“Sixty per cent of the femicides we’re hearing about are occurring in homes,” Barasa disclosed.

Barasa blamed government institutions for exacerbating the crisis.

“The police don’t take GBV cases seriously. Cases take years in court,” she said.

Barasa also condemned some medical professionals for perpetrating Female Genital Mutilation (FGM), especially in Kisii, Nyamira, and Migori counties, even as traditional circumcisers are being phased out through awareness campaigns and legal reforms.

“This is shocking. We’re now seeing trained doctors performing FGM on young girls,” she said.

The GBV Working Group identified the underfunding of critical justice and protection institutions as a major barrier to effectively addressing GBV.

The task force is expected to compile its findings and submit recommendations to the president by June 8, 2025.