People with disabilities, female athletes most affected by gender-based violence
By Wangari Njuguna, September 30, 2025The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has raised alarm over the rising cases of gender-based violence (GBV) in Kenya, despite ongoing awareness campaigns meant to curb the vice.
Speaking during a media address on Tuesday, September 30, 2025, NGEC Chief Executive Officer Purity Ngina said people living with disabilities remain the most vulnerable, often making up the majority of victims.
She added that at least 70 per cent of female athletes have experienced GBV, a statistic she said shows just how widespread the problem is.
“Gender-based violence is pervasive; it can happen anywhere and to anyone. This is why we must create more awareness and take action,” Ngina said.
Citing the 2022 Health Demographic Survey, she noted that 15 per cent of girls under 18 had fallen victim to teenage pregnancies, describing the figure as alarming.
“These statistics are not just numbers. They represent young lives shattered by violence and abuse, and we cannot afford to normalise such violations,” she said.
Ngina warned that the surge in GBV cases has worsened court backlogs, leaving many survivors waiting too long for justice. “Meru is one of the counties with a huge backlog of GBV cases, and this delays justice for victims, prolonging their pain,” she said.
She emphasised that the Commission is working not only to push for timely justice but also to monitor compliance with equality standards at both national and county levels.
As part of these efforts, NGEC is rolling out awareness programs in all 47 counties to educate the public on their rights and responsibilities in tackling GBV.
“In Murang’a, we are holding week-long activities with residents and stakeholders to strengthen policies and create a safer society for all,” Ngina said.
She added that NGEC will also be providing legal clinics to address issues such as land disputes, which often contribute to GBV.