The Ministry of Gender, Culture and Children Services has raised serious concern over a disturbing pattern on social media that treats gender-based violence as entertainment.
Officials say videos depicting fake abuse or sexual harassment not only trivialize survivors’ experiences but could also trigger legal consequences for those posting them.
In a statement, the State Department for Gender Affairs and Affirmative Action expressed alarm at content that turns domestic abuse and harassment into a joke or online trend, warning that it undermines efforts to protect victims.
Two types of videos were highlighted as particularly harmful. The first involves staged domestic violence scenes in which women appear as victims but “forgive” their partners after receiving gifts. The second trend involves fake sexual harassment clips, often circulated on platforms like TikTok, showing young men accosting women in public as part of a prank.
The ministry also condemned the use of children in such content, saying instructing them to react or comment on abusive scenarios amounts to child abuse and can cause lasting psychological harm.
"Such content is reprehensible. It erodes the significant progress made in the national fight against GBV by making a mockery of intimate partner violence and sexual assault. Portraying these crimes as humorous or trendy, where 'forgiveness' can be bought, dangerously distorts public understanding and empathy," the statement read.
"Furthermore, this flood of fabricated scenarios creates a 'cry wolf' effect, making it increasingly difficult for authorities and the public to identify and prioritise genuine GBV cases requiring urgent intervention. This can lead to critical delays in assistance for real survivors," it added.
Principal Secretary Anne Wang’ombe underlined that the government has invested substantial resources to fight all forms of gender-based violence, including abuse online, and will not allow social media content to reverse these gains.
The ministry demanded that all such content be removed immediately and warned creators against posting or sharing material that downplays abuse. It stressed that such acts are punishable under Kenyan law.
"Be advised that these actions are not only morally wrong but constitute punishable offences. Relevant government authorities are now on alert and will take decisive action against future violations. This is a serious matter of national concern. We call on all citizens and social media users to reject and report such content, and to stand united in fostering a digital environment that respects dignity and promotes true gender equality," said PS Wang’ombe.
She urged the public to actively report harmful content and support a safe online environment, stressing the need for society to protect survivors and prevent the normalization of gender-based violence.
