Learners in Nairobi schools face the highest levels of abuse in the country, according to a new report by the National Gender and Equality Commission (NGEC). The study paints a grim picture of children’s safety, revealing sharp differences in the types of violence experienced by boys and girls.
The survey, conducted in September 2025 across public primary schools in 19 Arid and Semi-Arid (ASAL) counties, found that 66.7% of schools in Nairobi reported at least one form of learner violence, which was the highest rate nationally. Kitui followed at 36.4%.
Physical abuse was the most widespread, affecting 55.6% of learners in Nairobi. Sexual violence was reported by 44.4%, while online harassment stood at 11.1%, which was the highest incidence countrywide. Baringo came second in online abuse at 9.1 per cent, with other counties recording none.
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Gender disparities were evident as boys reported slightly higher rates of physical violence at 15.9% compared to 13.8% among girls, with Nairobi and Marsabit leading in such cases.
Sexual violence, however, was more prevalent among girls at 14.4% compared to 3.3% among boys.
Nairobi, Kilifi, and Marsabit recorded the highest sexual abuse figures at 44.4%, 21.4%, and 20% respectively.
“On average, 23.9% of schools reported that learners experienced some form of violence. Across most counties, girls experienced higher rates of sexual violence, while boys reported slightly higher rates of physical violence,” the NGEC report stated.
Although online sexual harassment was reported in only 1.4% of schools, NGEC warned that the cases signal emerging digital safety concerns for learners.
Dr Purity Ngina, the Chief Executive Officer of NGEC, stressed that abuse is not confined to schools alone. “Violence in this context refers to any form of violation against a child, whether by a church elder, neighbour or family member,” Ngina said.
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The report also documented harmful cultural practices undermining education. In Isiolo, half of the boys were engaged in child labour, while 40% of girls were involved in domestic chores or market work.
Laikipia and Baringo followed with 36% of boys in labour, while girls’ involvement was highest in Meru, 20% and Baringo, 18%
Child marriage was most prevalent in Isiolo and Meru, with Narok, Kilifi, and Baringo also recording significant cases. Female Genital Mutilation (FGM) was concentrated in Baringo and Garissa at 27.3% each, and Narok at 21.4%. Nairobi reported no FGM cases, which NGEC attributed to progress in community sensitisation.
Teachers and community leaders noted that cultural traditions continue to drive practices such as child marriage and labour, further endangering children’s education.
In conclusion, NGEC recommended urgent interventions to protect learners from violence and address gender-specific vulnerabilities, ensuring safe access to education for all.
By Masaki Enock
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