CS Cheptumo vows action after exposé on child sexual trafficking in Naivasha
Cabinet Secretary for Gender, Culture and Children Services, Hanna Cheptumo, has launched a nationwide crackdown on child predators in response to a damning BBC Africa exposé that uncovered widespread commercial sexual exploitation of children (CSEC) in Maai Mahiu, Nakuru County.
The crackdown comes amid growing calls for accountability and systemic reform to address the root causes of child exploitation. The documentary revealed horrifying cases of child trafficking, abuse, and exploitation, sparking national outrage and prompting immediate government action.
You might also like
In a press statement on Thursday, August 7, 2025, Cheptumo condemned the exploitation as a gross violation of child rights under the Children Act 2022, the Constitution of Kenya, and international child protection frameworks.
“The government views these crimes with utmost seriousness and will not tolerate the abuse of vulnerable children for profit, pleasure, or gain by locals or foreigners alike,” the statement read.
The ministry announced a series of aggressive measures to combat child sexual abuse, including intensified law enforcement efforts and expanded victim support services.
“We have mapped all hotspots where such acts are occurring,” the statement read. “Investigations are currently ongoing, and any offenders of this act found culpable shall be dealt with by the law.”
Call for swift action
CS Cheptumo emphasised that the Ministry is working closely with other state agencies under the Multi-Agency Technical Team on Trafficking in Persons and Cybercrime Units to dismantle exploitation networks operating both online and offline.
In addition to enforcement, the CS said the ministry is prioritising the rescue and rehabilitation of survivors.
“Any victims of sexual abuse identified are rescued and provided with medical care, psychosocial support, and reintegration services through state-run Child Protection Centres and safe shelters,” the Ministry noted.
Cheptumo affirmed the government’s unwavering commitment to justice for child victims and called on the public to assist in exposing offenders.
“We must protect the dignity and well-being of every child in Kenya. It is a responsibility we all share,” she urged.
Cheptumo urged for a swift response but warned that sustained efforts and community vigilance are key to long-term change.
The CS has vowed that no perpetrator will escape justice, promising.
“Those who prey on children will be pursued, prosecuted, and punished,” she warned.
