Domestic violence
What counts as domestic violence, protection orders, and where to get urgent help.
Checked against the law on 16 October 2026
Your rights
Domestic violence is not only hitting: sexual, emotional, psychological and economic abuse, harassment and intimidation are covered too.
Protection Against Domestic Violence Act 2015 — s.3(opens Kenya Law)You can ask a court for a protection order that stops the abuser from contacting or coming near you, and it can be made urgently.
Protection Against Domestic Violence Act 2015 — protection orders(opens Kenya Law)Everyone has the right to be free from violence from public or private sources.
Constitution of Kenya, 2010 — Art. 29(c)(opens Kenya Law)
What to do
In danger now: call 999 or 112. The free national gender-based violence helpline is 1195; Childline Kenya is 116.
Report at the gender desk of a police station and get a P3 form filled by a doctor for any injuries — it is evidence.
After sexual violence, go to a hospital within 72 hours for emergency treatment and evidence collection.
Where to get help
- FIDA-KenyaFree legal help for women, including protection orders and maintenance.
- National Legal Aid Service (NLAS)Free legal advice and representation for people who cannot afford a lawyer (Legal Aid Act 2016). Ask at any court registry or Huduma Centre.
Every situation is different. Ask Verisha with your facts — answers cite the law.
Ask VerishaInformation, not legal advice. Check the official source, or an advocate, before you act.