A recent report by the National Council of Administration of Justice (NCAJ) has revealed a significant increase in morality offences in Kenya, with 32,695 cases recorded nationally. The report indicates that sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) and morality offences are on the rise, with a notable concentration in dense urban areas. Nairobi, Nakuru, and Meru have been identified as high-risk zones for minors, with defilement emerging as the single most prevalent charge nationwide.
According to the NCAJ report, there were 7,330 offences against morality in the 2024/2025 financial year, while in 2025/2026, there were 11,566 recorded cases. This represents a significant increase in morality offences over the past year. The report also notes that serious crimes, including morality offences, have shot up by 59.5 per cent. Other crimes, such as stealing, dangerous drugs, and offences against persons, are also on the rise.
The report highlights Nairobi, Nakuru, and Kisumu as areas requiring heightened vigilance, with a high likelihood of women being raped or children being sexually exploited. Nairobi alone recorded 363 defilement cases, 79 rape cases, and 47 sexual assault cases. Nakuru had 267 defilement cases, 49 rape cases, and 16 sexual assault cases, while Meru recorded 217 defilement cases, 51 rape cases, and four sexual assault cases.
The NCAJ report also notes that certain counties in Kenya are considered "green" for children, with very few cases of defilement recorded. Isiolo, Samburu, and Wajir are among these counties, with 19, 15, and 12 cases of defilement, respectively. Additionally, some counties reported no cases of sexual assault or incest, including Samburu, Mandera, Kericho, Elgeyo Marakwet, Baringo, and West Pokot.
The report also highlights a significant increase in other crimes, including car theft, break-ins, and stock theft. Car theft surged by more than 1000 cases, with 2425 reported cases, while break-ins increased by 3000 cases, with 8771 cases recorded. Stock theft also shot up by close to 2000 cases, with a record 4007.
The NCAJ report notes that the increase in crime may reflect changes in crime incidence, reporting, police detection, and case-recording practices. The report emphasizes the need for heightened vigilance and action to address the rising crime rates and protect vulnerable populations, particularly women and children.
The report's findings have significant implications for law enforcement and policy makers in Kenya. With defilement being the most widespread offence across counties, totalling 5,942 cases, it is clear that targeted interventions are needed to address this issue. The report's recommendations are expected to inform policy and strategy to combat crime and promote public safety in Kenya.
Key points
- Defilement is the most prevalent charge nationwide, with 5,942 cases recorded.
- Nairobi, Nakuru, and Meru are high-risk zones for minors, with a high likelihood of women being raped or children being sexually exploited.
- Certain counties, such as Isiolo, Samburu, and Wajir, have recorded very few cases of defilement, making them considered "green" for children.
