This archive report was first published on 6 July 2020.
On July 6, 2020, President Uhuru Kenyatta addressed the nation on the country's way forward in light of the COVID-19 pandemic, directing the National Crime Research Centre to probe the increasing number of gender-based violence cases.
The President's directive comes after a significant rise in domestic and sexual violence cases during the pandemic. The safety measures implemented by the government, including curfews and school closures, have led to increased stress levels among Kenyans, resulting in a surge in violence within homes, with women and girls being the primary victims.
Many of the reported cases of gender-based violence have been perpetrated by relatives and close associates of the victims. President Kenyatta expressed concern over the increasing tensions within homes, stating, 'I am concerned by increasing tensions within our homes. Cases of Gender-Based Violence have increased, mental health issues have worsened, and instances of teenage pregnancy have escalated.'
The President also highlighted the worrying number of teenage pregnancies and violations of children's rights reported during this period. He appealed to social institutions, including religious bodies, to be vigilant and help put an end to these unfortunate incidents.
As part of his directives, President Kenyatta ordered the National Crime Research Centre to prepare an advisory for security agencies on actions to be taken in the prosecution of perpetrators within 30 days.
The Ministry of Public Service and Gender has a toll-free hotline (1195) available 24/7 for victims and their relatives to report cases of GBV.
