NAIROBI, Kenya — The National Police Service has concluded a specialized training programme aimed at strengthening investigations into technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV), as authorities move to respond to rising digital crimes targeting vulnerable groups.
The three-day capacity-building workshop was held at the National Police Leadership Academy (NPLA) and brought together 33 Gender Desk Officers drawn from counties across the country. The programme was supported by the Korea National Police in partnership with the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).
According to the National Police Service, the training focused on improving officers’ ability to handle emerging forms of gender-based violence committed through digital platforms, including social media, mobile applications, and other online environments.
Focus on Digital Evidence and Survivor Protection
Participants were trained on key investigative areas, including digital evidence identification, collection, preservation, and documentation. The programme also covered digital tracking, metadata analysis, and modern case management techniques for cyber-related offences.
A strong emphasis was placed on survivor-centred and trauma-informed approaches, reflecting a shift in policing methods that prioritise the dignity, privacy, and psychological safety of victims.
The training also encouraged inter-agency collaboration, recognising that digital crimes often cut across multiple jurisdictions and require coordinated responses between law enforcement, prosecutors, and digital service providers.
Leadership Emphasises Evolving Security Threats
The closing ceremony was officiated by the Commandant of the National Police Leadership Academy, AIG David Mathiu, who underscored the need for continuous capacity building within the police service.
He reaffirmed the commitment of Inspector General Douglas Kanja to strengthening institutional preparedness in preventing and investigating technology-driven crimes while safeguarding victims’ rights.
“The rapid advancement of technology continues to present new policing challenges that require innovative, knowledge-driven and collaborative responses,” Mathiu noted during the closing session.
He further commended the officers for their participation, stressing that modern policing demands continuous upskilling to keep pace with evolving security threats.
Growing Concern Over Online Gender-Based Violence
Technology-facilitated gender-based violence has become an increasing concern in Kenya, with incidents ranging from online harassment and stalking to image-based abuse and digital extortion.
Human rights and digital safety advocates have consistently urged stronger enforcement mechanisms and improved investigative capacity within law enforcement agencies to address the trend.
The latest training signals an institutional push by the National Police Service to align policing practices with digital realities, particularly as more criminal activity shifts online.
Senior officials from the academy, including the Deputy Commandant, Dean of Studies, and Director of Planning and Research, attended the closing ceremony, highlighting the institutional weight placed on the programme.
