What to Do When You Just Found Out Your Child Has Been Sexually Abused in Kenya

Discovering that your child has been sexually abused is an incredibly distressing experience. It is important to act quickly and carefully to protect your child and seek justice. Here are the steps to take and where to get help in Kenya.

Stay Calm and Offer Reassurance

Your child needs your support. Stay calm and let them know that they are safe and that you believe them. Reassure them that they did nothing wrong and that you will protect them.

Do Not Confront the Abuser

Avoid confronting the perpetrator, as this may put your child and yourself at further risk. Instead, focus on ensuring your child's safety and gathering the necessary evidence to report the abuse.

Seek Medical Help Immediately

Take your child to the nearest hospital or medical facility for a check-up. If the abuse happened within the last 72 hours, request Post-Exposure Prophylaxis (PEP) to prevent HIV infection and other necessary medical treatments.

Key Hospitals and Centers for Medical Support:

  • Nairobi Women’s Hospital - Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC)
    Contact: +254 703 618 472

  • Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) GBV Centre
    Contact: +254 709 854 000

Report to the Authorities

Reporting the abuse is crucial in seeking justice and preventing further harm.

Where to Report:

  • Police Stations (Gender-Based Violence Desks) – Visit the nearest police station and file a Police Occurrence Book (OB) report. Dial 999, 112, or 911 in an emergency.

  • Child Helpline (116) – A toll-free 24/7 helpline for child protection services in Kenya.

  • Department of Children’s Services – Visit the nearest Children’s Office for assistance.

Seek Counseling and Emotional Support

Your child needs professional emotional and psychological support to heal. You may also need counseling to cope with the situation.

Organizations Offering Psychological Support:

  • Childline Kenya (116 Hotline) – Offers free counseling for children and families.

  • Usikimye – Provides safe spaces, counseling, and rescue services.

  • FIDA Kenya – Offers legal aid and counseling for survivors.

Gather Evidence

If possible, keep any physical evidence such as clothing or messages related to the abuse. A medical report and a police statement will be critical in any legal action.

Take Legal Action

Seek legal guidance to ensure the perpetrator is held accountable. Organizations like FIDA Kenya and CRADLE – The Children’s Foundation provide legal aid for children.

Protect Your Child from Further Harm

Ensure your child is in a safe environment. If the abuser is a family member or someone close, consider seeking alternative accommodation or contacting child protection services for intervention.

Final Thoughts

The healing process may take time, but your child can recover with the right medical care, emotional support, and legal action. Do not hesitate to seek help from the listed organizations and ensure that justice is served.