The government has identified areas recording high cases of defilement and gender based violence (GBV), with many involving individuals entrusted with the protection of children.
Speaking during the presentation of the Jukwaa la Usalama report to President William Ruto at Statehouse, Nairobi, on December 2, Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen highlighted Kisii, Migori, and Bomet counties as areas that recorded high cases of defilement.
He emphasised the urgent need to intensify the fight against sexual and gender-based violence, particularly cases affecting minors.
"The big issue is sexual and gender based violence especially defilement. Most of these cases involve the people who are supposed to protect these young children. As the police continue to work hard, we want to upscale the fight against defilement." he stated.
While defilement remains a critical concern, Murkomen also highlighted other security challenges facing the country.
He confirmed banditry continued in parts of Isiolo and Meru, though significant progress had been made in areas such as Kerio Valley, with over 1,000 firearms recovered.
"We still face challenges of banditry especially in Meru and Isiolo, but it is an issue we are going to deal with based on examples we have received from successful areas," he noted.
The CS also flagged drug abuse, alcoholism, and gang activity as persistent threats, noting that political interference sometimes exacerbates these issues, with goons allegedly hired for political gain.
"Some counties have more bars than restaurants and its making it hard for us to deal with this issue," Murkomen reiterated.
He said the government is committed to an all-inclusive plan that addresses both sexual violence and broader security concerns, aiming to safeguard communities and protect vulnerable children from abuse.
The Interior Ministry also proposed a mandatory prosecution of all defilement cases, eliminating options for non-judicial settlements or mediation by community elders.
The Jukwaa la Usalama Report, launched by President William Ruto, represents the final phase of a nationwide initiative that saw the Interior Ministry hold town hall meetings and open forums with citizens, leaders, and security officers across all 47 counties between April and October 2025.
