What to Do If You Are Raped in Kenya: A Guide to Seeking Help and Justice

Sexual violence is a serious crime, and if you have been raped in Kenya, it is important to know that you are not alone. There are legal, medical, and psychological support systems available to help you. Below is a step-by-step guide on what to do and where to seek assistance.

1. Ensure Your Safety

After an assault, your immediate priority should be your safety. If you are in danger, try to get to a safe location as soon as possible. If possible, seek help from someone you trust.

2. Do Not Shower or Change Clothes

Although it is natural to want to clean yourself, avoid showering, bathing, or changing clothes. This is because physical evidence may be lost, which can be crucial in legal proceedings.

3. Seek Medical Assistance Immediately

It is important to get medical attention as soon as possible, even if you do not have visible injuries. A doctor will check for injuries, provide emergency contraception, and offer preventive treatment for sexually transmitted infections (STIs), including HIV/AIDS.

 

Where to Get Medical Help in Kenya:

  • Nairobi Women’s Hospital – Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC)

    • Contact: +254 719 638 006

    • Offers free medical care and counseling for survivors of sexual and gender-based violence.

  • Kenya National Hospital (KNH) – Gender-Based Violence Recovery Centre

    • Contact: +254 729 403 983

    • Provides medical assistance, psychological support, and forensic evidence collection.

  • Any public hospital or health center

    • You can also seek treatment at any public health facility where post-rape care is provided.

4. Report the Crime to the Police

You should report the rape at the nearest police station as soon as possible. Request a Post Rape Care (PRC) form, which is essential for medical and legal proceedings. It is also advisable to have a trusted person accompany you for support.

Where to Report the Crime:

  • Police Stations (Gender Desk): Many police stations have gender desks with officers trained to handle sexual violence cases sensitively.

  • National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC)

    • Contact: +254 709 375 100

    • Provides guidance on gender-based violence cases.

  • FIDA Kenya (Federation of Women Lawyers Kenya)

    • Contact: +254 709 748 273

    • Offers free legal aid and advice to survivors of gender-based violence.

5. Seek Psychological Support

Sexual violence can cause emotional and psychological trauma. It is crucial to talk to a counselor or therapist to help you cope with the trauma.

Where to Get Counseling Support:

  • Gender Violence Recovery Centre (GVRC) (Nairobi Women’s Hospital)

  • Healthcare Assistance Kenya (HAK) – Offers a free GBV helpline: 1195

  • LVCT Health – Provides trauma counseling: +254 728 600 142

  • Amani Counselling Centre – Provides mental health support: +254 722 626 590

6. Legal Assistance and Pursuing Justice

If you choose to take legal action, organizations such as FIDA Kenya and the Coalition on Violence Against Women (COVAW) provide free legal representation and advocacy. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) also handles sexual violence cases.

7. Join Support Groups

Connecting with other survivors through support groups can be a vital part of the healing process. Organizations such as Usikimye and The CRADLE (Children’s Foundation) offer survivor-centered support networks.

8. Know Your Rights

Under the Sexual Offences Act of 2006, rape is a criminal offense in Kenya, punishable by up to life imprisonment. Survivors have the right to medical care, psychological support, and legal representation.

Conclusion

If you have been raped, know that you are not to blame. Seek help immediately and take the necessary steps to ensure your health, safety, and justice. There are organizations, hospitals, and legal institutions ready to support you.

If you or someone you know needs urgent help, call the toll-free GBV helpline 1195 for immediate assistance.