The Government has raised alarm over a surge in violence against children reported in Nyeri, Murang’a, and Tharaka Nithi counties.
Speaking during a press briefing, Gender CS Hana Wendot said the Ministry is closely monitoring investigations into recent cases while reinforcing child protection systems.
The Ministry expressed condolences to bereaved families, terming the incidents tragic, unacceptable, and a violation of children’s rights guaranteed under Article 53 of the Constitution and the Children’s Act 2022.
Ongoing Investigations in Murang’a, Tharaka Nithi and Nyeri
In Murang’a County, authorities are investigating the recovery of bodies of two children from Kiyama River in Katanga Sub-County on May 10, 2026.
The victims, a boy aged about 14 and a girl aged about 9, are believed to have died under unclear circumstances. In Tharaka Nithi County, a separate probe is ongoing following the discovery of a missing child’s body in Mukothima Sub-County.
In Nyeri, CS Wendot noted a worrying pattern of increased violence against children, prompting heightened surveillance and inter-agency coordination to prevent further harm.
The Government has intensified coordination between the National Police Service, DCI, children officers, community security teams, schools, and local administration under the Nyumba Kumi framework.
CS Cheptumo emphasized that anyone found responsible will face the full force of the law, as the state strengthens enforcement of child protection frameworks and improves response mechanisms across affected counties.
Rising Case Numbers Raise National Concern
According to the CS, a total of 531 cases involving violence against children, women, and men are currently being handled in the region, with 515 pending in court, 10 under active investigation, and 6 pending arrest.
Additionally, 680 suicide cases have been recorded, raising serious concern about mental health and social stability.
A presidential task force on gender-based violence has already submitted its national report to Cabinet, with findings expected to guide policy reforms and strengthened prevention strategies.
National Action Plan and Emergency Response Measures
The Government has announced a multi-sector meeting scheduled for May 22, 2026, bringing together Ministries of Interior, Education, Health, Judiciary, ODPP, county governments, and religious leaders to develop coordinated interventions.
A 90-day Rapid Results Initiative (RRI) has also been launched to curb the rising cases, with an ambitious goal of eliminating such incidents within one year.
The Ministry further urged communities to remain vigilant and cooperate fully with ongoing investigations nationwide efforts.
