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Climate disasters aggravate Kenya’s child exploitation crisis – Study

By Faridat Salifu

Climate change is worsening child exploitation and gender-based violence in Kenya, according to a new study that links environmental disasters with rising cases of sexual abuse, school dropout, and early pregnancies among young adolescents.

Conducted across six climate-affected regions — Mathare, Kisumu, Isiolo, Naivasha, Kilifi, and the Kalobeyei Refugee Settlement — the study highlights how floods, droughts, and resource scarcity are exposing children, especially girls aged 10 to 14, to dangerous survival strategies.

The research was led by Dr. Carmen Logie of the University of Toronto in collaboration with local Kenyan organizations.

“Climate change isn’t just an environmental issue. It’s a public health and child protection emergency,” Logie said. “When families are deprived of food, clean water, or basic sanitation, young girls often bear the brunt.”

Using participatory mapping, interviews, and focus group discussions, researchers uncovered how extreme weather events are intensifying poverty and forcing children into exploitation.

Girls frequently reported missing school due to a lack of food, sanitary pads, or clean clothing. Some entered exploitative relationships for as little as 20 Kenyan shillings (about 15 US cents) in exchange for food.

A woman in Isiolo told researchers: “There are children who drop out of school and go loitering. They’ll say, ‘We have no money for uniforms, school fees, or food – so what do you expect me to do?’”

Water and sanitation emerged as major risks. During droughts, girls walked long distances to collect water; during floods, they risked assault near water points.

“You can’t shower because there’s no water, so girls sell themselves to get it,” said a young participant in Mathare. Several accounts described girls being attacked, raped, or harassed while trying to access basic hygiene.

The study also found that unsafe toilet and shower facilities contributed to school absenteeism. Girls reported being watched, filmed, or harassed while using public washrooms. Many avoided using toilets altogether, harming their health or further isolating them from public spaces.

“These are not isolated incidents. Every region we studied told the same story,” said co-author Aryssa Hasham. “Hunger and water insecurity are pushing children into decisions no child should ever have to make.”

Researchers say the findings call for urgent policy action that includes integrating child protection into climate response strategies, improving access to education, and ensuring safe water and sanitation infrastructure in vulnerable communities.

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