5 warning signs of GBV every Kenyan should recognise
By Paulette Mboga, November 18, 2025Gender-Based Violence (GBV) continues to affect many Kenyans, cutting across age, gender, and social status.
“Recognising the warning signs of GBV early can help protect lives and prevent further harm,” experts say.
GBV can be physical, emotional, sexual, or economic. Understanding the signs allows individuals, families, and communities to take timely action and provide support to victims.
Controlling behaviour
One of the most common warning signs is controlling behaviour. This can include restricting access to money, isolating someone from friends and family, constantly checking their movements, or making decisions for them without consent.
Experts warn that controlling behaviour often escalates over time and can lead to more serious forms of violence.
Verbal or emotional abuse
Verbal and emotional abuse is another clear warning sign. Constant insults, humiliation, threats, or criticism can make victims anxious, depressed, and lower their self-esteem. Such abuse often precedes physical violence, so early recognition is key to preventing harm.
Physical abuse
Physical signs can sometimes be hidden but are serious indicators of GBV. Frequent injuries, unexplained bruises, or repeated “accidents” may suggest physical abuse. Victims may avoid explaining how they got hurt or appear fearful around certain individuals, highlighting the need for vigilance from friends, family, and authorities.
Financial or economic abuse
Economic control is another red flag. Abusers may restrict access to money, prevent someone from working or studying, or monitor all spending. This leaves victims dependent on their abuser and can make it very difficult to escape the situation. Early recognition of financial abuse can help break the cycle.
Behavioural changes
Sudden changes in behaviour can indicate GBV. Victims may withdraw from social activities, show fear or anxiety around certain people, or display sudden changes in mood or personality. Teachers, colleagues, friends, and family members often notice these changes first and should offer support and connect victims to professional help.
Recognising these five warning signs—controlling behaviour, verbal or emotional abuse, physical abuse, financial abuse, and behavioural changes—is essential for early intervention. Communities, families, and authorities in Kenya are encouraged to support victims and provide safe avenues for reporting abuse.
Early recognition and timely action can prevent escalation, reduce harm, and even save lives. Every Kenyan should be aware of these warning signs and contribute to creating a society where violence, in any form, is not tolerated. Awareness and action remain key in the fight against GBV.