Ninety-third session

Geneva, 22 June–10 July 2026

Item 4 of the provisional agenda

Consideration of reports submitted by States parties under article 18 of the Convention on the Elimination of All Forms of Discrimination against Women

* The present document is being issued without formal editing.

Replies of Kenya to the list of issues and questions in relation to its ninth periodic report *

[Date received: 8 August 2025]

List of abbreviations

AGPOAccess to Government Procurement Opportunities

CEDAWConvention on the Elimination of Discrimination against Women

CSOsCivil Society Organizations

CTIPSCounter Trafficking in Persons Secretariat

DCIDirectorate of Criminal Investigations

FGMFemale Genital Mutilation

GBVGender Based Violence

HRDsHuman Rights Defenders

IDLOInternational Development Law Organization

KDHSKenya Demographic Health Survey

KFCBKenya Film Classification Board

KLRCKenya Law Reform Commission

KNBSKenya National Bureau of Statistics

KNCHRKenya National Commission on Human Rights

MCKMedia Council of Kenya

NGAAFNational Government Affirmative Action Fund

NGECNational Gender & Equality Commission

NLASNational Legal Aid Service

NRMNational Referral Mechanism

ODPPOffice of the Director of Public Prosecutions

PWDPersons with Disabilities

SDGSustainable Development Goal

SGBVSexual & Gender Based Violence

STEMScience, Technology, Engineering & Math

TFGBVTech-Facilitated Gender Based Violence

TVETTechnical & Vocational Education Training

WEFWomen Enterprise Fund

WHRDsWomen Human Rights Defenders

YEDFYouth Enterprise Development Fund

I.Introduction

1.The Government of Kenya is pleased to submit its replies to the list of issues in relation to the ninth periodic report of Kenya on the Convention of Elimination of all forms of Discrimination against Women (CEDAW).

2.These responses have been prepared after a highly participatory and consultative process incorporating Government Ministries, Agencies, Departments and civil society organizations under the guidance of the State Department for Gender Affairs and Affirmative Action.

II.Replies to the list of issues (CEDAW/C/KEN/Q/9)

A.Legislative framework and definition of discrimination

Implementation and assessment of national legislation and policies and measures taken to strengthen the capacity of the State Department of Gender and Affirmative Action

3.Kenya has enacted progressive legislation to address direct and indirect discrimination against women, including the Marriage Act (Cap. 150), Matrimonial Property Act (Cap. 152), Protection Against Domestic Violence Act (Cap. 151), and Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (Cap. 62A).

4.In 2024, a report jointly published by the Kenya Law Reform Commission (KLRC), UN Women, and IDLO identified nine laws requiring repeal, seventeen needing amendment, and seven thematic areas where new legislation is necessary, providing a reform roadmap aligned with Kenya’s Constitution and international commitments.

5.Between FY 2023/2024 and FY 2024/2025, the development budget allocation to the State Department for Gender Affairs and Affirmative Action increased from Ksh. 3,453,830,000 (approx. USD 26.7 million) to Ksh. 3,838,700,000 (approx. USD29.7 million), reflecting a strategic rise to support gender-responsive programming, county-level coordination, legal aid services, and alignment with Vision 2030 and SDG 5.

6.Administrative structures have been enhanced through the appointment of a Cabinet Secretary and Principal Secretary in the State Department for Gender and Affirmative Action, complemented by the establishment of the Office of the Presidential Advisor on Women Rights to support high-level coordination and oversight.

7.Gender equality and empowerment programs have been implemented through a 9-point agenda articulated by the Government, which addresses: economic empowerment; inclusion of women in leadership and decision-making; prevention and response to gender-based violence (GBV) and female genital mutilation (FGM); welfare of Kenyan women in the diaspora; women’s health access; provision of clean and safe domestic energy; distribution of free sanitary towels to school-going girls; protection of women’s land and property rights; and strengthening social welfare and community health initiatives targeting women.

Regular capacity-building and awareness-raising initiatives

8.The Kenya–Finland Bilateral Programme on Strengthening Prevention and Response to Gender-Based Violence (GBV), currently in its final phase and scheduled to conclude in late 2025, has trained over 5,900 duty bearers–including law enforcement, judicial officers, and community leaders – and reached more than 10,994 participants through structured learning activities. Operating in Bungoma, Kilifi, and Samburu counties, the programme has contributed significantly to institutional capacity, inter‑agency service coordination, and localized policy development. A short phasing-out period has been granted to support sustainability and integration of results into Kenya’s long-term GBV response frameworks.

Number of cases in which the provisions of the Convention were invoked

9.In 2024 and 2025, domestic courts continued to apply and reference CEDAW in decisions addressing gender equality and non-discrimination. In re Estate of Chemiron Arap Sigira (Deceased) [2025], the High Court considered CEDAW and other international instruments when adjudicating succession claims involving women’s inheritance rights. Similarly, in Patriotic Group of Companies Ltd v Sewe & 15 others [2025], the Employment and Labour Relations Court cited CEDAW in evaluating workplace discrimination against female employees. These decisions build on earlier jurisprudence such as FIDA-Kenya v Attorney General (2018), affirming CEDAW’s applicability in the country’s evolving legal landscape.

B.Access to justice

Steps taken to implement article 48 of the Constitution, the Committee’s general recommendation No. 33 (2015) on women’s access to justice

10.Since 2021, over 50,000 women and girls have benefited from legal empowerment programs coordinated by the National Legal Aid Service (NLAS) and the Programme for Legal Empowerment and Aid Delivery (PLEAD).

11.Kenya has established 12 Gender Justice Courts nationwide – formerly SGBV courts – which specialize in handling sexual and gender-based violence cases through trauma-informed and expedited processes.

12.Legal aid and reparations for marginalized groups are supported through the Legal Aid Act, Cap. 16A, Victim Protection Act, Cap. 79A, and Refugees Act, Cap. 173, ensuring access for older women, survivors of conflict-related sexual violence, women with disabilities, and refugee, migrant, and impoverished women and girls.

Steps taken to codify Muslim family law in a manner that is compatible with article 27 of the Constitution and articles 1, 2 and 16 of the Convention

13.Kenya recognizes the plural legal framework governing family relations and has taken steps to harmonize Muslim family law with constitutional guarantees of equality and non-discrimination under Article 27 and international obligations under CEDAW.

14.While Muslim family law remains largely uncodified, the Marriage Act, Cap. 150 provides a statutory framework recognizing Islamic marriages under Part VII, subject to constitutional safeguards. Section 3(4) and Section 49(3) of the Act allow application of Islamic law, but require consistency with equality provisions under Section 3(2) and Article 45(3) of the Constitution.

15.In 2025, the Supreme Court of Kenya issued a landmark ruling in Fatuma Athman Abud Faraj v Ruth Faith Mwawasi & Others, affirming that children born out of wedlock are entitled to inheritance under Muslim law, provided paternity is established and the child was acknowledged during the father’s lifetime. The Court emphasized that any deviation from constitutional equality must meet the “strictly necessary” threshold under Article 24(4).

Steps taken to abolish the death penalty

16.Kenya has advanced efforts to abolish the death penalty, following its 2024 vote in support of a UN moratorium and a longstanding moratorium on executions since 1987. In 2023, the Penal Code (Amendment) Bill was introduced to replace the death penalty with life imprisonment in the Penal Code Cap. 63, and has since been adopted by the Justice and Legal Affairs Committee, pending parliamentary debate.

C.Women, peace and security

Information on the implementation and evaluation of the second national action plan for the advancement of Security Council resolution 1325 (2000)

17.Women’s participation in peacebuilding increased through their inclusion in county peace committees, disaster response platforms, and capacity-building forums across target counties.

18.The 2017 Gender Policy was developed within the Ministry of Defence, promoting institutional reforms and leadership opportunities for women in the security sector.

19.Under the Promotion and Participation Pillar, Kenya strengthened women’s inclusion in peace platforms and leadership, notably with the election of seven female governors in 2022, alongside expanded mentorship and capacity-building initiatives for young women in governance and the security sector.

20.The Prevention Pillar operationalized gender-sensitive early warning systems in several counties to address root causes of conflict and violence, with active involvement of women in data collection and community-level response coordination.

21.The Protection Pillar enhanced survivor-centred mechanisms, including the establishment of Police Gender Desks, toll-free GBV helplines, and Gender Justice Courts, while strengthening legal safeguards for vulnerable populations such as migrants, refugees, and internally displaced women and girls.

22.The Relief and Recovery Pillar integrated Women, Peace and Security principles into disaster response frameworks – such as the National Disaster Risk Management Policy (2018) and COVID-19 Recovery Strategy – and supported the creation of gender-based violence shelters and inclusive approaches to Disarmament, Demobilization, and Reintegration programming.

23.Kenya has initiated the drafting of the Third National Action Plan (KNAP III) for 2025–2029 through a consultative process involving national and county stakeholders, civil society, and traditional leaders, ensuring alignment with UNSCR 1325, the Constitution of Kenya, and CEDAW Articles 1, 2, and 16.

D.National machinery for the advancement of women

Information on the steps taken to enhance the implementation of the national policy on gender and development (2019)

24.Kenya operationalized the Policy through a dedicated Gender Ministry led by a Cabinet Secretary and the Strategic Plan (2023–2027), providing a roadmap for programming, resource allocation, and institutional coordination.

25.Gender mainstreaming was institutionalized across ministries, departments and agencies via focal persons with annual performance targets, supported by toolkits and guidelines for implementation at both national and county levels.

26.Legal and policy reforms were advanced to align national laws with gender equality principles, including amendments to laws on sexual offences, marriage, employment, FGM, and matrimonial property.

27.The Intergovernmental Consultation Framework strengthened coordination across national and county governments, enhanced monitoring of gender programs, and mobilized resources to expand impact.

28.Kenya improved gender data integration in national surveys and censuses, and enhanced monitoring and reporting mechanisms – particularly through Voluntary National Reviews linked to SDG 5 and other global targets.

Concrete Results of the 2020–2025 Strategy in Achieving SDG 5

29.The Gender Parity Index in technical and vocational education improved from 0.80 to 0.86 by 2022, alongside the implementation of the Gender Mainstreaming Policy for TVETs and provision of sanitary towels to over 2.29 million girls in FY 2023/24.

30.Women’s economic empowerment was strengthened through significant financial disbursements – USD 180 million via WEF, USD 49.8 million through Uwezo Fund, and USD 109.2 million by NGAAF – to support tens of thousands of women’s groups and grassroots initiatives.

31.Inclusive procurement expanded through AGPO, awarding 31,715 tenders worth USD 395.1 million to women, youth, and PWDs in 2023/24, up from USD 285.5 million in 2020/21.

32.Financial inclusion initiatives reached scale: Hustler Fund disbursed USD 465.6 million with 79% repayment and USD 25.6 million in mobilized savings, while YEDF financed youth agribusiness with over USD 1 billion in loans, grants, and training.

33.GBV prevention showed progress, with notable declines in physical violence, sexual violence, and FGM rates nationally between 2014 and 2022.

34.GBV response systems improved through increased case resolution, expanded helpline use, and the constitutional invalidation of out-of-court settlements for sexual violence in the 2023 landmark decision in IW & Another v Omondi & 3 others (Constitutional Petition E416 of 2021) [2023]KEHC 26907 (eKLR).

35.Institutional mechanisms were strengthened, including the operationalization of 12 SGBV courts, updating of GBV policies in 13 counties, creation of a Sexual Offenders Electronic Register, and integration of gender strategies by the Judiciary and universities.

36.Women’s political representation advanced significantly with increases at national and county levels, gubernatorial seats held by women doubling to six, and 92% of public institutions achieving compliance with the two-thirds gender rule in FY 2024/25.

Measures to Strengthen Gender-Responsive Budgeting and Monitoring Systems

37.Budget circulars, Programme-Based Budgeting, and County Integrated Development Plans have been aligned to link financial resources to gender-related outcomes, with gender-sensitive indicators and targets reflecting constitutional principles under Articles 27, 43, and 201.

38.The Control of Budget Management Information System has strengthened gender-sensitive monitoring by enabling real-time tracking and reporting of allocations and actual expenditures, thereby enhancing transparency and accountability across gender-responsive public financial management.

Steps Taken to Address Low Budget Allocation for Gender-Related Programmes

39.Public Finance Management tools, Programme-Based Budgeting frameworks, and operationalized Gender Responsive Budgeting Guidelines have institutionalized the integration of gender equality indicators across all stages of the budget cycle.

40.Gender focal points, dedicated budget officers, and multi-sectoral Gender Sector Working Groups have enhanced technical capacity, planning coordination, and resource mobilization to advance gender-responsive budgeting and increase allocations.

Capacity-Building Initiatives for Government Departments on Gender-Responsive Planning and Budgeting

41.The Government strengthened institutional capacity for gender-responsive budgeting through the development of a national training manual in 2024 in collaboration with UN Women and stakeholders, complemented by regular training for planners and finance officers, and targeted in-department coaching to support integration of gender perspectives in budget formulation and performance monitoring.

E.National human rights institutions

Information on the process of selection and appointment of members to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights

42.The selection and appointment of Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) members is governed by Article 59 of the Constitution and Section 11 of the KNCHR Act (Cap. 71). The process involves public advertisement, shortlisting, interviews by a multi-agency Selection Panel, and parliamentary vetting prior to formal appointment by the President.

43.In 2021, four Commissioners were appointed following the prescribed process. Appointees are required to meet integrity and professional qualifications under Chapter Six of the Constitution and serve a single non-renewable six-year term.

44.The Chairperson’s position is currently vacant following the passing of the previous office holder in January 2025. A Selection Panel was constituted in April 2025, has completed shortlisting, and the final appointment is awaiting confirmation by the President.

45.The KNCHR Act provides an explicit mandate for the Commission to monitor, promote, and advise government on compliance with international and regional human rights instruments. Section 7 of the Act affirms the obligation to observe “all treaties and conventions ratified by Kenya.

F.Civil society and women human rights defenders

Information on measures, including legislative measures, adopted to protect women human rights defenders, including Indigenous women and climate activists

46.Kenya has adopted legal and policy safeguards for women human rights defenders (WHRDs), including Indigenous and climate activists, through instruments such as the Public Order Act, Sexual Offences Act, Witness Protection Act, and the draft Human Rights Defenders Policy. This policy was developed by the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) as a model framework to guide recognition, protection, and support for HRDs.

47.In 2023, Kenya formally adopted the African Guidelines on the Protection of Women Human Rights Defenders, developed in partnership with Equality Now, UN Women, and the African Union. These guidelines promote gender-responsive legal redress, psychosocial support, and emergency protection mechanisms.

48.The Safe and Protective Spaces Manual, developed under the Joint Programme on GBV led by the State Department of Gender Affairs and UN partners, was published in 2021. It outlines models for shelters, one-stop centers, and virtual safe spaces tailored to WHRDs and GBV survivors.

49.Kenya has adopted a multi-sectoral approach to prevention and response under the National Gender-Based Violence Prevention and Response Framework (2022–2026) and the National Action Plan on Human Rights (2023–2027), strengthening coordination against reprisals, threats, harassment, and arbitrary detention.

Information on the status of the Victim Protection Trust Fund and the draft victims’ rights charter

50.The Victim Protection Trust Fund was established under the Victim Protection Act (2014) to support victims of crime. Regulations to operationalize the Fund were developed by a multi-agency taskforce led by the Office of the Attorney General and the National Treasury, and remain under review pending formal approval. The draft Victims’ Rights Charter has also been developed and is currently undergoing consultative validation prior to adoption.

G.Temporary special measures

Measures taken to apply the two thirds gender rule requiring that women comprise at least 33 per cent of elective and appointive bodies

51.The Government enforces Article 177(b) of the Constitution through nomination of special seats to ensure gender balance in County Assemblies. A Multi-Sectoral Working Group, established in 2023, submitted a gender implementation framework to Parliament in 2024, proposing constitutional and legal amendments, including male inclusion strategies.

52.Gender mainstreaming is promoted through the Public Service Diversity Policy and integration of gender targets in performance contracts, mandating the formation of institutional gender committees and policies. The private sector adopted a gender and boardroom diversity policy in 2022 to address gender-pay gaps and promote inclusion.

53.In 2024, the Council of Governors launched a G7 Strategy to increase the number of female governors from 7 to 16 by 2027. Constitutional committees on Women, Peace and Security and climate action also contribute to gender-inclusive governance.

54.Several gender-focused bills, including the Elections (Amendment) Bill and the Political Parties (Amendment) (No. 2) Bill, are under parliamentary consideration.

H.Stereotypes and harmful practices

Information on measures taken to eliminate gender stereotypes and harmful practices against women and girls

55.The Government has implemented legal reforms, community-based norm-shifting initiatives, and multi-sectoral programs – including the National Plan of Action on Child Marriage, adopted in 2022, and the Positive Parenting Programme–to address persistent child marriage and eliminate gender stereotypes and harmful practices against women and girls, with a focus on education, economic empowerment, and engagement of traditional and faith leaders.

Challenges encountered in enforcing the relevant provisions of the Children’s Act (2022), the Prohibition of Female Genital Mutilation Act (2011) and the Marriage Act (2014)

56.The Children’s Act’s progressive provisions – such as mandatory reporting, child protection units, and diversion mechanisms–require sustained investment in training, infrastructure, and community engagement to be fully realized. Similarly, enforcement of the Marriage Act’s minimum age provisions is constrained by informal and unregistered unions, while the Prohibition of FGM Act faces difficulties in detecting and prosecuting underground practices and cross-border cases.

Information on the practice of “beading”, unsafe forced abortions and other harmful practices, such as bride prices and widowhood rites

57.Public education campaigns challenging harmful widowhood practices and promoting dignity and autonomy for widowed women have been led by a combination of government institutions and grassroots organizations. The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has conducted awareness drives and issued public statements condemning retrogressive cultural practices, while county governments have initiated gender mainstreaming policies and community dialogues through their gender departments.

58.The Children Act, 2022, explicitly prohibits “girl child beading” as a harmful cultural practice and provides for protection from abuse, neglect, and exploitation, while ensuring access to essential services like education and healthcare

Measures taken to address gender stereotypes and to mainstream gender equality into the education curricula

59.Kenya has implemented a series of coordinated measures to combat gender stereotypes and the objectification of women in traditional and social media, advertising, and digital platforms. Through strategic collaboration between the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) and the Kenya Film Classification Board (KFCB), media houses have been sensitized on adopting gender-sensitive editorial practices. This includes classifying film exhibitions, regulating broadcast content, and promoting inclusive portrayals of women across various media channels.

60.Civil Society Organizations (CSOs) have played a crucial advocacy role by leveraging digital platforms to raise awareness on gender-based violence and harmful depictions of women. Campaigns using hashtags such as #StopKillingWomen and #EndFemicideKe have highlighted the prevalence of femicide and mobilized public dialogue. In parallel, the Stereotype Alliance (K) continues to push for progressive representations of women in leadership, technical professions, and other non-traditional roles.

61.These interventions have yielded measurable impacts. Media regulators have revised editorial guidelines to promote diverse portrayals of women and sanctioned content that perpetuates stereotypes. Journalists, advertisers, influencers, and media students have benefited from targeted capacity-building programs on ethical, gender-sensitive reporting and advertising. Additionally, KFCB and MCK have rolled out media literacy and digital rights campaigns that empower women and girls to engage critically with content and advocate for inclusive media standards.

62.In the education sector, Kenya has mainstreamed gender equality through the Competency-Based Curriculum (2017), which integrates gender and inclusion themes across subjects such as social studies, life skills, and religious education. This curricular shift is complemented by the Gender Sector Education Policy (2025) and the National Education Sector Strategic Plan (NESSP) 2018–2022, which promote systemic reforms aimed at closing gender gaps, improving learning environments, and strengthening gender responsiveness in education delivery.

63.To support educators, the Ministry of Education – working with development partners – has delivered Gender-Responsive Pedagogy (GRP) training to equip teachers with the tools to identify and address gender bias in classrooms. In-service training programs further reinforce components of human rights and gender equality.

64.The government has also taken strategic steps to ensure girls’ continued access to education, particularly for vulnerable populations. These include the implementation of Free Primary and Day Secondary Education, distribution of sanitary towels to retain girls during menstruation, and the Elimu Scholarship Programme which prioritizes girls from disadvantaged backgrounds.

65.Recognizing the challenges facing adolescent mothers, the Government has operationalized the School Re-entry Guidelines (2020), allowing girls who drop out due to pregnancy to resume schooling. Additionally, the National School Health Policy embeds gender-sensitive health education to promote well-being and inclusion within learning institutions.

I.Gender-based violence against women and girls

Femicide

66.According to the 2025 World Population Review, femicide rates were at 2.6 per 100,000 females in 2021. In a report published by the United Nations Office on Drugs and Crime and UN Women, current and former intimate partners are the most likely perpetrators of femicide, accounting for an average of 55% of all intimate partner and family related killings. The Africa Data Hub reports 930 cases of female murders in Kenya from January 2016 to December 2024 with majority of the perpetrators (77%) being intimate partners and family members and 59% of the victims being women aged 18 to 35.2. The Hub reports 127 cases of femicide in the year 2024 while Kenya’s law enforcement agencies recorded 97 cases of femicide between September and November 2024. The Presidential Technical Working Group established to investigate the increasing cases of GBV and femicide. The group is working to align national and county-level efforts to combat GBV and femicide.

National Coroners Service (Amendment) Bill, 2023

67.The Government has taken concrete steps to advance the enactment of the National Coroners Service (Amendment) Bill, 2023, aimed at strengthening the legal framework for investigating reportable deaths and enhancing accountability in cases involving suspicious or violent fatalities. Key amendments include the establishment of the National Coroners Service Council, clarification of the role and appointment process for the Coroner-General, and expanded definitions to include coronial services and forensic responsibilities. The bill is awaiting cabinet approval.

Protection against Domestic Violence Act, progress made in the adoption of the sexual offences (amendment) bill (2023) and Information on access and budgetary resources allocated to support services

68.To strengthen the implementation of the Protection Against Domestic Violence Act 2015, the Government launched the Protection Against Domestic Violence Rules in September 2023. These rules operationalize the Act by establishing clear procedures for obtaining protection orders, enhancing survivor access to legal remedies, and outlining duties for enforcement officers, including police, social welfare officers, and medical practitioners.

69.The Protection Against Domestic Violence Rules emphasize early intervention, survivor dignity, and accountability for perpetrators, and include provisions for interim protection orders, compensation for victims, and streamlined court procedures. Survivors can now file complaints through designated representatives, and courts are mandated to dispose of compensation claims within six months.

70.The Government has committed to zero tolerance for GBV, with the Cabinet Secretary for Gender and Public Service announcing plans to establish a GBV Survivors Fund through co-financing with civil society and private sector partners. This fund aims to economically empower survivors and support access to justice.

71.Regarding the Sexual Offences (Amendment) Bill, 2023, the Bill was introduced in Parliament in December 2023 and underwent its first reading in July 2024 and is currently under review by the National Assembly SGBV Committee.

Measures taken to address new forms of gender-based violence against women and girls, including technology-facilitated violence

72.The Government has enacted the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act (2018), which criminalizes cyber harassment, publication of false information, and wrongful distribution of intimate images. While enforcement remains uneven, the Act provides a legal basis for prosecution and redress for victims of technology-facilitated violence, especially women and girls.

73.The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have acknowledged TFGBV as a prosecutable offence and are working to improve investigative capacity. Training of law enforcement on digital evidence handling and survivor-sensitive reporting is underway.

74.In 2025, the Kenya ICT Action Network (KICTANet) published a legal framework analysis on TFGBV, highlighting gaps in enforcement, survivor protection, and cross-border cooperation. The report calls for reforms to strengthen digital safety protocols, forensic investigation standards, and psychosocial support mechanisms for victims targeted in online spaces.

Information on the technical working group on gender-based violence and any steps taken to develop a legal framework on femicide

75.In January 2025, the President appointed a 42-member Presidential Taskforce on Gender-Based Violence (GBV), Including Femicide. The Taskforce was mandated to review enforcement gaps, assess legal frameworks, and propose bold reforms to address femicide as a national crisis. The Taskforce has conducted public hearings, accepted written submissions, and collaborated with national government administration officers. Its preliminary findings revealed that the lack of a legal definition of femicide undermines investigations and prosecutions. The Taskforce has called for urgent legislative reforms to classify femicide as a distinct and aggravated form of murder.

76.The Taskforce also highlighted the economic burden of GBV – estimated at KSh. 40 billion annually (approx. USD 308 Million) – and emphasized the need for increased funding, survivor-centered justice, and stronger coordination across national and county governments. Its final report is expected to inform policy, legal, and institutional reforms at the highest level.

J.Trafficking and exploitation of prostitution

77.The Government of Kenya continues to implement the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act, 2010, through the Counter Trafficking in Persons Secretariat (CTIPS), which coordinates a multi-agency national response to trafficking crimes involving women and girls.

78.Kenya launched its National Action Plan on Counter Trafficking in Persons (2024–2028) in February 2024. The Plan prioritizes victim protection, prosecution of offenders, data harmonization, and strategic partnerships to address transnational trafficking networks.

79.Between 2022–2024, targeted investigations by the DCI, in collaboration with the ODPP, resulted in over 85 trafficking-related cases brought to trial, with 34 convictions secured involving female victims.

80.The draft National Referral Mechanism (NRM) for victims of trafficking has been drafted and is undergoing stakeholder validation. The NRM seeks to operationalize standardized procedures for victim identification, rescue, referral, and rehabilitation.

81.Kenya has established the National Assistance Trust Fund for Trafficking in Persons to support survivors through comprehensive interventions including rescue, screening, legal assistance, repatriation, economic empowerment, and reintegration.

82.During the 2022–2023 fiscal year, the National Treasury maintained its allocation of Ksh. 20 million (approximately USD 162,270) to the National Assistance Trust Fund for Assisting Victims of Trafficking – consistent with the previous fiscal year. Out of this amount, the government disbursed over Ksh. 7.6 million (USD 62,270) to provide direct support to victims. These services included repatriation assistance, access to basic necessities, and reintegration support. The Fund also extended financial support to non-governmental organizations offering victim protection and rehabilitation services.

83.In 2023, CTIPS coordinated the training of more than 400 front-line officials, service providers, and CSO representatives across border points and counties, emphasizing gender-sensitive victim identification, ethical screening, and trauma-informed care.

K.Participation in political and public life

Measures taken to promote women’s and girls’ leadership, provide campaign financing and address practical and structural barriers to the participation of women and girls in political and public life

84.Kenya has adopted targeted measures to advance women’s leadership through the National Strategy for Women’s Political Participation (2023–2027).

85.Over 1,000 women candidates across 47 counties received training and campaign strategy support during the 2022 general elections, with specific attention to youth and persons with disabilities.

86.The Political Parties Fund now includes an earmarked 15% for women’s capacity-building and civic engagement, disbursed through the Office of the Registrar of Political Parties.

87.Structural and practical barriers are being addressed through constitutional litigation and legislative review processes. The High Court’s continued interpretation of Article 81(b) on gender parity has spurred draft proposals on enforcing the two-thirds gender rule.

88.County Assemblies and Parliament have expanded the reach of mentorship programs targeting secondary and university-level girls, with a 38% increase in participation between 2022 and 2024.

89.Kenya has made important strides in advancing women’s leadership as a core component of the right to equal participation in public affairs. The Judiciary stands out for its meaningful inclusion of women in decision-making roles, with women now holding the offices of Chief Justice, Deputy Chief Justice, and Attorney General – historic firsts that underscore institutional commitment to gender equality. Women comprise 44% of judicial officers, reflecting progress toward eliminating structural barriers in access to justice and leadership. In the legislative arena, the Kenya Women Parliamentary Association continues to champion the rights of women, promoting gender-responsive legislation and strengthening institutional accountability for women’s empowerment.

L.Nationality

Information on the status of the amendments to the refugee bill (2019) and the Citizenship and Immigration Act (2012) to enhance international protection for refugee, asylum-seeking and stateless women

90.The Government of Kenya is actively pursuing legal reforms to enhance international protection for refugee, asylum-seeking, and stateless women, in alignment with the Convention Relating to the Status of Stateless Persons and the CEDAW framework.

91.The Refugee Bill (2019) underwent substantive stakeholder consultations led by the Department of Refugee Services, culminating in the Refugees Act, 2021, which broadened the legal recognition and rights of refugee and asylum-seeking populations, with specific attention to gender-sensitive service provision.

92.Kenya participated in the Ministerial Intergovernmental Meeting on Statelessness in Africa (2024), reaffirming its pledge to eliminate gender discrimination in nationality laws.

93.As of July 2024, the State Department for Immigration and Citizen Services has launched a pilot project in Garissa and Turkana counties to facilitate birth registration and documentation for refugee and stateless families, with support from UNICEF and UNHCR.

94.The Government has initiated important legal and policy reforms to address statelessness and protect stateless individuals. Chapter 3 of the Constitution and the Kenya Citizenship and Immigration Act Cap. 170 provide pathways for stateless persons to acquire citizenship, while incorporating statutory definitions and eligibility criteria for naturalization. These measures lay the groundwork for expanded legal recognition of affected communities.

95.The government has publicly committed to acceding to the 1954 and 1961 UN Conventions on statelessness by 2027. As part of the UNHCR #Ibelong Campaign, Kenya pledged its accession and has since launched mapping exercises to identify stateless populations and inform future registration efforts. These actions signal national intent to align with global standards and uphold the rights of stateless persons.

96.Progress has already been made in granting Kenyan citizenship to historically stateless groups such as the Makonde, Shona, and Pemba communities. This recognition affirms Kenya’s constitutional commitment to equal protection and signals momentum toward inclusive nationality frameworks. In parallel, Kenya is developing a National Action Plan to Eradicate Statelessness by 2027, in partnership with UNHCR and civil society.

97.Complementary legislation, such as the Refugees Act No. 10 of 2021, supports access to asylum and protection for vulnerable groups, including women, children, persons with disabilities, and unaccompanied minors. These provisions strengthen institutional mandates and reinforce Kenya’s commitment to rights-based approaches in refugee and statelessness contexts.

98.To improve access to civil registration and legal identity documents, especially for rural women and persons with disabilities, the Government–through National Council on Persons with Disabilities and Civil Registration Services–has expanded online platforms like eCitizen, Huduma Centres, and mobile outreach. Awareness programs have been tailored to address barriers, misconceptions, and inclusion gaps, leveraging media and community leaders to enhance uptake and trust in registration systems.

M.Education

Measures taken to ensure that women and girls have equal, inclusive and affordable access to all levels and fields of education, including towards reaching gender parity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics; to ensure a safe educational environment and the impact of the school meals programme and the sanitary towel programme on enrolment, attendance and retention rates

99.To enhance access, affordability, and inclusion, the capitation grant system has been expanded under the Free Day Secondary Education Programme, with additional provisions for girls from marginalized and low-income communities. In FY 2023/24, over 250,000 girls received financial assistance through this scheme.

100.The Elimu Scholarship Programme, targeting academically promising students from vulnerable backgrounds, achieved near gender parity in its 2023 cohort, with 51% of recipients being girls.

101.In support of girls’ re-entry after pregnancy, the Ministry continues to enforce the School re-entry Guidelines (2020). Between 2022 and 2024, over 14,000 girls re‑enrolled, facilitated by county education officers and civil society sensitization efforts.

102.The Competency-Based Curriculum has integrated life skills, digital literacy, and gender-responsive pedagogies to foster safe, inclusive, and empowering learning environments.

103.Targeted efforts to promote girls’ participation in STEM include the STEM Mentorship Initiative under the Kenya National Innovation Agency, reaching over 6,700 female students in secondary schools across all 47 counties in 2023.

104.The School Meals Programme and Sanitary Towels Programme have had a demonstrable impact on attendance and retention, particularly in arid and semi-arid lands. A Ministry of Education report from March 2024 indicates a 23% increase in daily attendance among girls in supported schools.

105.The Sanitary Towels Programme distributed over 45 million pads in 2023, covering 70% of eligible girls in public primary schools. This initiative is coordinated through the State Department for Gender and county-level education offices.

106.To enhance child safety in educational institutions, the Government has operationalized the Children Protection in Schools Guidelines (2021), requiring all public schools to establish functional Child Protection Committees and grievance redress mechanisms. These structures are supported by targeted capacity-building initiatives, including mandatory training for teachers and education officers on child safeguarding protocols, reporting procedures, and early identification of abuse or neglect.

107.The Government is implementing the National Action Plan for Addressing Adolescent Health and Teenage Pregnancy (2022–2027), aligned with commitments under the International Convention on Population and Development. Notably, the Connect with Respect program–developed with UNESCO–has trained 30 national master trainers and sensitized 120 teachers across three counties on gender-responsive, rights-based sexuality education.

108.Since 2022, the Presidential Working Party on Education Reform has spearheaded reforms across basic, tertiary, and university education, prioritizing inclusive funding. Through the Elimu Scholarship, over 53,000 learners from vulnerable households have received support between FY 2020/21 and FY 2024/25.

109.Affirmative action in higher education includes reserving 55% of university scholarships for women and girls, while over 2,000 learners with disabilities have accessed funding through the Ustawi Scholarship Program, helping bridge persistent equity gaps.

110.Non-state actors complement public efforts through remedial education, community mobilization, and the provision of essential learning resources. Partnerships under the Global Partnership for Education and private sector stakeholders help dismantle barriers to girls’ education and create brighter futures.

111.The Higher Education Funding Model aims to increase access for students from low-income families, especially girls and women. Its success is bolstered through joint efforts with international donors and private firms to expand financial support and strengthen institutional frameworks.

N.Employment

Measures taken to address persistent occupational discrimination; sexual harassment in the workplace, as well as gender biases that affect hiring practices, promotions and workplace dynamics

112.The Ministry of Labour and Social Protection operationalized a National Gender Equality Seal Programme in collaboration with UNDP, which provides voluntary certification to employers based on compliance with gender-equitable policies, recruitment practices, and pay equity. As of May 2024, 65 public and private sector institutions have been certified.

113.To combat sexual harassment in the workplace, the Government launched a national sensitization campaign in partnership with the Kenya Federation of Employers and the Central Organization of Trade Unions. This included training for human resources officers and inspectors, and development of workplace sexual harassment policy templates for employers.

114.In 2023, the State Department for Labour updated the Occupational Safety and Health Guidelines to include gender-sensitive provisions addressing harassment, pregnancy-related discrimination, and mental health concerns.

115.Gender bias in recruitment, promotion, and professional development continues to be addressed through mandatory diversity reporting under the Public Service Commission Regulations (2022). Ministries, departments, and agencies must submit annual gender-disaggregated staff data with analysis of promotions and pay grades.

Gendered nature of the extractive industry, specific measures taken to ensure full access by women with disabilities to the formal labour market, the situation of women and girls working in the informal sector, and any targeted interventions to reach gender parity in leadership positions in the private sector

116.On the extractive industry, the Government developed gender-responsive guidelines under the Local Content Regulations (Petroleum Sector) requiring companies to submit plans for inclusion of women, particularly from host communities. A 2023 audit revealed that female participation in formal employment in extractives rose by 14%, though leadership roles remain disproportionately male.

117.Regarding the informal sector, which employs over 80% of Kenyan women, the State Department for Gender Affairs expanded access to financial literacy, social protection registration, and business development support. The Women Enterprise Fund disbursed KES 3.4 billion in 2023/24, reaching 120,000 women-led microenterprises.

118.In the private sector, targeted measures have been implemented to encourage women’s advancement to leadership roles. The Kenya Private Sector Alliance now requires its member companies to adopt voluntary reporting on gender balance in boards and executive positions. In 2024, women held 27% of top leadership roles across listed companies – a 4% increase from 2022.

O.Health

119.The Government of Kenya continues to enhance access to sexual and reproductive health services for women and girls through implementation of the National Reproductive Health Policy (2022–2032), which promotes rights-based health approaches, universal access, and equity across all counties.

120.In 2023/24, the Ministry of Health launched the Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, Child and Adolescent Health Investment Framework, aimed at closing service delivery gaps and increasing coverage in underserved regions. Over KES 6 billion was allocated for the framework’s interventions, with emphasis on community health strategy integration.

121.The Government has committed to increasing health sector financing to align with the 12% allocation target under the Kenya Health Sector Strategic Plan (2023–2027) and the 15% Abuja Declaration threshold on health financing for HIV/AIDS, TB, and infectious diseases.

122.As of June 2024, health budgetary allocations have risen to 9.4% of total public expenditure, and legislative efforts are underway to ring-fence the Reproductive, Maternal, Neonatal, Child and Adolescent Health Investment Framework, allocations within county integrated development plans.

123.To address high maternal and neonatal mortality rates- at 375 deaths per 100,000 live births, with approximately 6,300 maternal deaths annually (KDHS, 2022 & KNBS Economic Survey 2025)- the government has scaled up Universal Health Coverage (UHC) to integrate maternal and newborn services within county-level health systems.

124.The Government’s Primary Health Care Strategy has enabled the recruitment of over 100,000 community health promoters, who provide household-level health education, identify high-risk pregnancies, and facilitate timely referrals to skilled care. Mobile clinics and newly constructed facilities under the Level 3 Hospital Programme have expanded service availability in marginalized areas.

125.Counties with elevated maternal mortality ratios–such as Turkana, Mandera, and Wajir–have adopted locally driven interventions including conditional cash transfers to incentivize facility-based deliveries, ambulance referral systems, and partnerships with faith-based organizations to deliver obstetric care.

126.Kenya continues to collaborate with development partners to strengthen the supply chain for essential maternal health commodities, enhance training for emergency obstetric care and implement Maternal Death Surveillance and Response systems.

127.In 2024, the Kenya Medical Practitioners and Dentists Council issued a new directive requiring facilities to document and verify informed consent procedures in all sterilization cases, particularly where disabilities or socio-economic vulnerabilities are involved.

P.Economic empowerment of women

Measures taken to promote the economic empowerment of women, in particular under the National Care Policy and the National Policy on Women’s Economic Empowerment

128.The Government of Kenya has adopted comprehensive measures to promote the economic empowerment of women, anchored in the National Policy on Women’s Economic Empowerment (2022) and the National Care Policy (2023). These frameworks prioritize financial inclusion, entrepreneurship, care infrastructure, and gender-responsive social protection.

129.The National Policy on Women’s Economic Empowerment outlines five strategic pillars: financial access, education and skills, innovation and technology, leadership and decision-making, and a supportive policy environment. It guides cross-sectoral interventions and budget allocations at both national and county levels.

130.Through the Women Enterprise Fund and Uwezo Fund, over KES 5.6 billion was disbursed to women-led micro and small enterprises in FY 2023/24. This funding supported 148,000 women across urban, peri-urban, and rural areas, with 80% repayment compliance.

131.The National Care Policy (2023) recognizes unpaid care and domestic work as critical economic contributions. Its rollout includes pilots in six counties to establish community-based childcare services, expand day-care facilities, and mainstream time-use data into planning and budgeting processes.

132.Kenya integrated care economy indicators into its 2024 budget circular, requiring sector ministries to report on care-related targets. The Kenya Institute for Public Policy Research and Analysis is leading technical guidance for this shift.

133.To increase financial inclusion, the Government launched the Women’s Financial Inclusion Roadmap ( 2023–2027) in collaboration with the Central Bank of Kenya and FSD Kenya. As of mid-2024, 78% of Kenyan women have access to formal financial services, a 5% increase from 2022.

134.Under the Ajira Digital Programme, over 60,000 women have been trained in digital entrepreneurship and online work platforms since 2022. This supports diversification of income streams, especially for educated but underemployed young women.

135.In the agricultural sector, women’s access to productive assets is supported through the Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy, which promotes female farmer registration, cooperatives participation, and access to inputs. In 2023, 43% of registered farmers on e-voucher platforms were women.

136.The government continues to integrate gender-responsive budgeting across ministries. The National Treasury issued gender responsive guidelines in 2023, requiring inclusion of gender indicators in Public Investment Management frameworks and County Integrated Development Plans.

137.County-level economic empowerment hubs have been piloted in Kisumu, Kakamega, and Nyeri, offering business incubation, mentorship, and financial literacy services tailored to women’s needs – especially those in informal work and caregiving roles.

Q.Rural women, climate change and disaster risk reduction

138.The Government continues to prioritize rural women’s access to essential services through integration of gender-responsive planning in county development frameworks. Key investments have been made in water, sanitation, health, and agricultural extension systems targeting underserved rural areas.

139.As of 2024, 34 counties have adopted County Climate Change Action Plans which mainstream gender equity in climate resilience and service delivery. These frameworks are funded through the Climate Change Fund under the Climate Change Act (2016).

140.Through partnerships with UN Women and local NGOs, over 18,000 rural women have been trained in sustainable farming techniques, financial literacy, and climate adaptation practices under the Women Empowerment and Climate Resilience Initiative.

141.Kenya is actively implementing the Kenya Climate Smart Agriculture Strategy (2017–2026) to enhance agricultural resilience among women. The Strategy includes provisions for inclusive farmer training and access to climate-resilient seeds; E‑extension platforms tailored for women farmers in remote areas and gender-sensitive climate financing and insurance mechanisms.

142.By June 2024, more than 600,000 women had enrolled in climate-smart programs under the Agricultural Sector Transformation and Growth Strategy and had received access to drought-resistant inputs and water conservation resources.

143.The Community Land (Amendment) Regulations (2023) were revised to address historical barriers faced by Indigenous and rural women, particularly regarding documentation and land rights. The revised regulations mandate inclusive community land committees and require disaggregation of land ownership data by gender.

144.The National Land Commission, working with civil society organizations, has conducted sensitization in 22 counties to ensure that women – including pastoralist and Indigenous groups – are aware of their rights under the revised regulations.

145.Kenya’s National Disaster Risk Reduction Strategy (2023–2027) includes dedicated components for gender-responsive early warning systems and post-disaster recovery frameworks. Special attention is given to safeguarding the livelihoods and health of rural women, especially in flood- and drought-prone regions.

146.The National Drought Management Authority now incorporates gender indicators in its resilience and relief assessments. Between 2022 and 2024, the authority deployed 150 gender-trained officers in Arid & Semi-Arid counties to enhance inclusive disaster planning.

R.Women and girls facing intersecting forms of discrimination

Measures in place to ensure compliance with the mandated 5 per cent minimum requirement for the employment of persons with disabilities and the penalties imposed in case of non-compliance

147.The Government of Kenya has continued to implement measures to address intersectional discrimination faced by women and girls, including those with disabilities, Indigenous backgrounds, refugee status, or who reside in marginalized regions.

148.Women and girls with disabilities continue to face compounded barriers to health, education, and economic inclusion. As part of Kenya’s commitment to inclusive development, the enforcement of the 5% minimum employment quota for persons with disabilities, mandated under the Persons with Disabilities Act (2025), is being prioritized within public sector recruitment. Health sector institutions are specifically targeted for compliance, with annual reporting obligations to the National Council for Persons with Disabilities now in force. This framework aims to expand leadership pathways and service responsiveness for women with disabilities.

149.Intersectional programming has also been strengthened in maternal health interventions through the recruitment of community health promoters trained in disability-sensitive care. Facility audits and mobile service delivery are helping ensure accessibility for women with disabilities in rural and informal settlements, where gender and ability-based exclusions are most acute.

150.As of 2024, 52% of national government agencies and 36% of county governments had submitted updated disability employment compliance reports. Penalties for non-compliance include public reprimand, budgetary sanctions, and referral to the Ethics and Anti-Corruption Commission.

151.Kenya has invested in inclusive voter registration, digital literacy programs, and assistive technologies to enable greater participation of women with disabilities in civic and economic spaces. Electoral agencies have adopted sign language interpretation and braille ballots in selected polling stations.

152.Through collaboration with UNHCR and disability organizations, inclusive GBV response centers have been piloted in Kakuma and Dadaab, designed to offer trauma-informed and accessibility-sensitive services.

S.Marriage and family relations

Information on advancements in gender equality and the elimination of discrimination in relation to marriage and family relations

153.Kenya continues to advance gender equality in marriage and family relations through the implementation of the Marriage Act (2014), the Children Act (2022), and relevant provisions of the Constitution.

154.The Children Act (2022) reinforces equal parental responsibility and explicitly prohibits child marriage. Provisions mandate registration of all births and define shared parental duties regardless of marital status.

155.The Judiciary has expanded access to family courts and digitized filing systems for maintenance, custody, and separation applications. By mid-2024, 24 counties had operational family courts with trained magistrates on gender-sensitive adjudication.

156.Civil registration offices across the country have adopted digital birth and marriage registration systems, facilitating timely access to documentation and enhancing safeguards for women in civil unions.

157.The National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC) has conducted public education campaigns on spousal rights, domestic obligations, and property ownership in marriage. These campaigns target both urban and rural communities and utilize religious leaders, legal aid clinics, and community media.

158.Legislative proposals are under consideration to harmonize laws relating to succession and property ownership, including amendments to the Matrimonial Property Act (2013), with a view to ensuring equitable division and legal clarity in divorce and inheritance proceedings.

T.Data collection and analysis

Specific steps taken to address the lack of comprehensive and updated data disaggregated by sex, age and disability status across sectors

159.The Government of Kenya has undertaken targeted measures to address persistent gaps in the availability of comprehensive and disaggregated data by sex, age, disability status, and other intersecting factors. These efforts are particularly focused on sectors such as unpaid care work, gender-based violence (GBV), and femicide, where data scarcity has historically undermined policy responsiveness.

160.Through the Kenya National Bureau of Statistics (KNBS), the Government has:

(a)Integrated disability and age disaggregation into household surveys and administrative datasets;

(b)Initiated a Time-Use Survey to quantify unpaid care work, with technical support from UN Women under the Women Count programme;

(c)Strengthened the Maternal Death Surveillance and Response system to include disability status and age in mortality audits;

(d)Developed metadata sheets for 34 gender-related SDG indicators, enhancing harmonization across ministries.

161.Kenya has institutionalized Citizen-Generated Data frameworks to complement official statistics, particularly in GBV reporting. A Technical Working Committee on Citizen-Generated Data co-chaired by KNBS and civil society actors, validates datasets submitted by grassroots organizations.

162.To secure sustainable financing for gender data collection, the government has through the National Treasury updated the Standard Chart of Accounts, enabling tracking of public allocations for gender equality.

163.The government has also partnered with development agencies to fund county-level gender data sheets and digital dashboards, such as GROOTSmart, which track progress on gender indicators across sectors.