The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), in collaboration with the International Justice Mission (IJM) Center to End Online Sexual Exploitation of Children, has launched a comprehensive training program for Prosecutors to strengthen Kenya’s response to online child sexual abuse.
The five-day training in Nairobi has brought together 25 specialized Prosecutors from the ODPP’s Child Justice Unit and law enforcement officers, to enhance their skills in handling CyberTipline reports, digital evidence, and victim-centered prosecutions.
In his opening remarks, Director of Public Prosecutions Mr. Renson M. Ingonga, emphasized the urgency of addressing online child exploitation, describing it as a “grave violation of children’s rights” that is “pervasive, borderless, and deeply traumatizing.”
He highlighted Kenya’s growing exposure to crimes such as grooming, live-streamed abuse, and the distribution of Child Sexual Abuse Material (CSAM), as revealed in reports from the U.S.-based National Center for Missing and Exploited Children (NCMEC).
“As prosecutors, you are on the frontline of this battle,” Mr. Ingonga stated.
“The ODPP is committed to ensuring perpetrators are held accountable through robust legal action, cross-border cooperation, and trauma-sensitive approaches for child victims.” He outlined the ODPP’s progress, including the establishment of a dedicated Children Division as well as Child Justice Unit, child-friendly interview rooms in nine locations, and increased reliance on digital forensics.
Also in attendance was IJM Country Director Mr. Vincent Chahale and Atty. Ralph Vincent Catedral, Prosecution Specialist, Center to End Online Sexual Exploitation of Children, who noted that the training, supported by IJM and NCMEC, aims to equip prosecutors with advanced skills in interpreting CyberTipline reports—critical tools for identifying and prosecuting child online exploitation.
IJM’s involvement underscores the importance of global partnerships in combating transnational crimes.
“This collaboration exemplifies how strategic alliances can protect vulnerable children,” Mr. Ingonga noted, urging participants to champion child-sensitive justice.
