The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has launched a specialized training program for 30 prosecutors aimed at strengthening the prosecution of defilement cases, in a renewed effort to secure justice for child victims of sexual abuse.

The initiative, officially opened on Monday by Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga, is supported by the 160 Girls Project and seeks to equip prosecutors with trauma-informed and victim-sensitive approaches.

In his keynote address, DPP Ingonga explained the critical role of prosecutors in combating sexual and gender-based violence (SGBV), especially against children, whom he described as the most vulnerable members of society.

“This training is not just a professional development exercise it is a reaffirmation of our commitment to protect children and ensure they are heard and served with justice,” he stated.

“As prosecutors, we are not just legal officers; we are human rights defenders for our nation’s most vulnerable.”

Ingonga emphasized that the success of defilement prosecutions depends on the strength of investigations and the quality of evidence brought before the courts. He called for continued collaboration with law enforcement agencies to ensure the integrity of cases and the accountability of perpetrators.

“Every child who suffers abuse deserves not only justice but dignity. Our duty is to ensure we do not re-traumatize victims through our processes.”

Also speaking at the event, Kula Roba Wako, the National Coordinator for Equality Effect, highlighted the broader impact of the program, noting that it bridges both legal and psychosocial dimensions of justice.

“This programme enhances the prosecutorial approach to defilement cases by emphasizing empathy, legal precision, and inter-agency collaboration. A successful prosecution sends a clear message: Kenya’s justice system works for children,” she said.

The training builds on a successful pilot held in April and forms part of the ODPP’s wider efforts to improve the handling of SGBV cases in line with human rights standards.

The curriculum includes modules on trauma awareness, child protection, and best practices in evidence management, and encourages stronger linkages with the National Police Service and Judiciary.

The ODPP says the initiative marks a decisive step in restoring public confidence in the justice system and ensuring survivors of child sexual abuse receive timely, dignified, and effective redress