Combating Sexual Offences in Kenya: an Appraisal of the Implementation of the Sexual Offences Act

Abstract

Kenya has not fully realized the objective of minimizing sexual offences despite the enactment of the Sexual Offences Act, 2006, which imposes harsh penalties for sexual offences. The aim of this study is to analyze the efficacy and the success of the Sexual Offences Act 2006. To this end, the study examines the extent to which the Sexual Offences Act effectively facilitated prosecution, conviction and sentencing of sexual offenders. It further interrogates the factors which have undermined its implementation. Both desk and field research were undertaken in this study. Findings from the research reveal that for the objectives of the Sexual Offences Act to be fully achieved, there is an urgent need for constant civic awareness, amendment of some portions of the said Act and implementation of other pieces of legislation such as the Employment Act and the Public Officers Ethics Act. The study therefore recommends that public awareness initiatives should be undertaken and that all the relevant personnel be provided with adequate resources and the knowledge on how to handle such cases. It also recommends the provision of a proper policy implementation programme to ensure the alignment of the relevant sectors and institutions with the provisions of the Sexual offences Act.