This policy brief is based on the findings of a research report exploring the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic on patterns of sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV) in Kenya (see http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.3964124). The research found patterns of violence were shifting in the wake of Covid-19, and that vulnerability to sexual and other forms of violence were being exacerbated, particularly for girls and women. The following policy recommendations are offered based on the findings: Ensure children have access to alternative safe venues when schools are closed. Ensure government COVID-19 emergency management and recovery plans include alternative emergency routes for accessing SGBV services. Invest in the real-time data collection and analysis of sexual violence and other violations to identify possible geographic clusters and crimes being perpetrated by the same offenders, and to measure SGBV service accessibility to ensure appropriate support.

Funded by UKRI ES/T010207/1 and AH/T008091/1, and the University of Birmingham Institute for Global Innovation.