The Sexual Offences Act is a legislation in Kenya that addresses various forms of sexual offenses and provides legal frameworks for the prevention, prosecution, and protection related to sexual crimes. It aims to safeguard the rights and well-being of individuals, particularly victims of sexual offenses. The Sexual Offences Act is based on the Sexual Offences Act, No. 3 of 2006, and subsequent amendments.
The Sexual Offences Act covers a wide range of offenses and related matters, including but not limited to:
Rape and Defilement: The Act defines rape as non-consensual sexual intercourse with an adult without their consent. It also addresses defilement, which involves sexual intercourse with a person under the age of consent.
Sexual Assault: The Act addresses different forms of sexual assault, including sexual acts committed without consent, sexual harassment, and sexual exploitation.
Child Pornography: The Act prohibits the production, distribution, possession, and viewing of child pornography. It aims to protect children from sexual exploitation and abuse.
Female Genital Mutilation (FGM): The Act criminalizes the practice of female genital mutilation, as well as related offenses such as aiding or abetting the practice.
Sexual Offenders Register: The Act establishes a Sexual Offenders Register, which is a database that contains information on individuals convicted of sexual offenses. It serves as a tool for monitoring and managing convicted offenders.
Victim Protection and Support: The Act provides for the protection, support, and compensation of victims of sexual offenses. It includes provisions for the establishment of specialized courts, protection orders, and confidentiality of victims' information.
Investigation and Prosecution: The Act outlines procedures for the investigation and prosecution of sexual offenses. It emphasizes the importance of conducting investigations sensitively and protecting the rights of victims throughout the legal process.