Five-year-old’s testimony leads to justice in Kenya
Sexual Violence
December 2024
Thanks to the courageous testimony of five-year-old Asha*, a man was sentenced to 20 years in prison for sexual abuse.
Asha displayed extraordinary bravery as she identified her attacker in court not once, but twice. Despite her young age, Asha recounted her harrowing experience, using her words as a powerful catalyst for justice.
Today, Asha is healing well, both physically and emotionally; she has finished her trauma-counselling sessions and is mainly able to enjoy a normal childhood.
The abuse occurred last year, when the perpetrator – a trusted neighbour - took Asha by the hand and led her away from her friends and into his house. After he had abused her, he warned Asha not to tell anyone what had happened.
When Asha returned home, visibly distressed and in pain, her nanny and mother discovered what had happened. Her mother took immediate action, seeking medical assistance. When doctors confirmed the assault, they reported the abuse to the police.
The neighbour brought other community members to defend him in court, claiming he could not have abused the child. But during the trial, Asha provided a moving testimony – highlighting the manipulation and fear she experienced and making it clear that she understood what had happened to her.
At one point, Asha pointed at the perpetrator in court, saying, “It’s him.”
This strong conviction ensures that Asha and many other girls who may have been at risk are now safe, allowing them to enjoy their childhood free from the threat of this man.
IJM will facilitate ongoing family therapy sessions for Asha’s parents in the coming months, helping them also process their trauma and adapt following the abuse.
IJM is working with partners to protect thousands of vulnerable children from sexual violence which is rampant in Kenya, particularly in the coastal region. Most cases involve family, friends or community members, as well as tourists. Only a fraction of cases are reported to the police.
Give this Christmas to help children like Asha heal and find joy again >>
*Pseudonym. Image not representative of survivor