Alarming Rise in Youth Gender-Based Violence Spurs Urgent Action in Nairobi

Nairobi  Kenya

25th July 2025

A recent study has brought to light a disturbing surge in gender-based violence, sexual abuse, and social pressures affecting young people in Nairobi, triggering a wave of concern and demands for immediate intervention from researchers, policymakers, and youth advocates.

The research, conducted by the International Centre for Reproductive Health Kenya (ICRHK) and unveiled at a community forum at Githurai grounds, is part of the PMA Agile Nairobi Youth Cohort 2024 Survey. The survey tracked the lives of adolescents and young adults across Nairobi to better understand the challenges they face, particularly in matters of safety, relationships, and reproductive health.

Professor Peter Gichangi, the Principal Investigator for PMA Agile, expressed grave concern over the findings, describing them as “deeply unsettling.” According to the data, nearly one in five young women in relationships have experienced physical violence within the past year. Even more troubling, over 20% reported being victims of sexual violence—often by someone they trusted.

“These statistics are not just abstract figures. They represent real people—our daughters, sisters, students—whose dignity is being violated, often in silence,” said Prof. Gichangi.

The report highlighted that intimate partner violence is the most widespread form of abuse among young women, with 28.4% of those in relationships reporting such experiences. Although less prevalent, non-partner sexual violence remains a pressing concern, with 5.8% of young women revealing they had experienced sexual abuse in the past year.

Calls for targeted, youth-centered solutions echoed throughout the forum. One speaker passionately stated, “We must go beyond data collection. It’s time to confront these issues head-on with urgency and empathy.” Representatives from Johns Hopkins University, the National Council for Population and Development (NCPD), and youth-led organizations emphasized the need for a coordinated approach—one that combines education, community engagement, and improved access to reproductive health services.

Chief Samuel Kimondo of Githurai made a strong appeal to families, urging them to become part of the solution.

“Let’s challenge harmful myths, open up honest conversations at home, and empower our young people with the truth. Their future hinges on what we do today,” he said.

The survey further exposed deeply rooted societal challenges such as cultural taboos, limited access to contraception, and rigid gender expectations—all of which continue to hinder the well-being and progress of Nairobi’s youth. Despite these obstacles, participants at the event saw the data as a powerful tool to drive change.

“Young people are no longer just asking for recognition—they’re demanding inclusion, dignity, and safety,” said a youth leader at the forum. “This data must be a turning point, not just for discussion but for action.”

As the forum concluded, stakeholders pledged to strengthen partnerships among government bodies, local communities, and youth groups. Their collective goal: to build a safer, more inclusive environment where young people can thrive free from violence, fear, and stigma.