More than 31,000 sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) cases were filed in Kenyan courts in the 2024/25 financial year, with Nairobi, Kiambu and Meru emerging as the hardest-hit counties, a new report has revealed.
The findings, released by the National Council on the Administration of Justice (NCAJ), show that 31,460 cases were filed slightly down from 32,909 the previous year. Nine counties recorded more than 1,000 cases each: Nairobi, Meru, Kiambu, Nakuru, Machakos, Kisumu, Kisii, Kakamega and Bungoma.
Nairobi led with 2,654 cases, including grievous harm, defilement, rape and indecent acts. The county also resolved 2,549 cases during the year. Kiambu followed with 1,793 cases, the bulk of them grievous harm, and resolved 1,751. Meru recorded 1,727 cases, with 1,376 concluded.
Other counties with high SGBV burdens included Nakuru (1,332), Machakos (1,280), Kakamega (1,157), Kisii (1,140), Kisumu (1,007) and Bungoma (1,178). Grievous harm remained the most prevalent offence nationally.
Three counties Machakos, Kisumu and Meru registered an increase in filings, while others recorded a decline. Kilifi, which had more than 1,000 cases the previous year, dropped to 939. Samburu and Wajir had the lowest case numbers.
Nationwide, courts resolved 31,880 SGBV cases, slightly exceeding the number filed. Of these, 22,855 involved grievous harm, highlighting the scale of physical violence survivors endure.
Despite increased reporting and judicial interventions, the NCAJ notes that deep-rooted challenges persist. It is calling for stronger prevention efforts, improved case management and expanded support systems for survivors, warning that communities cannot afford to normalize violence or delay justice.
 cases were filed in Kenyan courts in the 2024/25 financial year, with Nairobi, Kiambu and Meru emerging as the hardest-hit counties, a new report has revealed.){kind=link}