By Angela Kibara
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is doubling down on its commitment to combat the shifting landscape of Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV).
This crucial announcement came during the second regional roundtable focused on new ways to fight SGBV, held at the Novotel in Nairobi.
Mr. Abdalla Komesha, representing DCI Director Mr. Mohammed I. Amin, underscored the shifting nature of SGBV.
He pointed out that alongside persistent traditional acts of violence, such as rape, domestic abuse and female genital mutilation, a wave of new, subtle threats is emerging.
These include cyber harassment, digital extortion and online human trafficking, all of which “require a unified and transnational response,” Komesha emphasized.
The two-day workshop gathered key legal sector representatives from across East Africa.
It built upon discussions from the first roundtable in February 2025, aiming to create common plans and improve cooperation across borders. The objective is to effectively counter both established and modern forms of SGBV.
“The DCI fully recognise the transnational nature of modern SGBV,” stated Mr. Amin, highlighting the agency’s dedicated efforts.
He cited the work of specialized teams like the Anti-Human Trafficking and Child Protection Unit, alongside Gender Desks located at various police stations. These resources, combined with enhanced forensic capabilities, ensure that the DCI provides survivors with “a response that is professional, empathetic, and timely.”
Mr. Amin strongly urged all attendees to help create a common framework. This framework should involve consistent investigative practices, mutual legal assistance, and aligned laws to prevent criminals from exploiting legal gaps.
He stressed that “Justice must be holistic,” encompassing not only legal remedies but also comprehensive survivor care. This includes providing protection, psychological support, safe environments, and programs for long-term reintegration into society.
The DCI Director extended his sincere appreciation to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) and their partners, Lawyers Without Borders, for organizing what he termed a “timely and vital forum.”
In attendance were Mr. Renson Ingonga, Director of Public Prosecutions; Hon. Lady Justice Njoki Ndung’u of the Supreme Court; Jessica Ryckman, Executive Director of Lawyers Without Borders; Ulrich Jaenen, Country Component Lead of the Police Program Africa – GIZ; and Margaret Nderi, Criminal Intelligence Officer at INTERPOL Soteria.
Their presence highlighted the widespread collaboration necessary to address this critical issue.