By Nyang’au Araka
The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has begun developing a national framework to guide compensation and reparations for victims of human rights violations across the country.
In a statement issued Friday, the commission said it has initiated technical work, mapped areas most affected by protest-related abuses and started consultations with stakeholders to ensure a transparent and comprehensive reparations process.
The initiative follows a landmark ruling by the High Court of Kenya delivered in December 2025 in Kerugoya, which affirmed KNCHR’s constitutional mandate to design a reparations framework for victims of human rights violations.
It also follows a presidential directive issued on March 6 requiring the commission to submit a report outlining the framework within 60 days.
KNCHR Chairperson Claris Ogangah acknowledged the suffering experienced by victims and their families, saying the commission is committed to delivering a credible and rights-based reparations system.
“The commission acknowledges the pain, loss and anxiety experienced by victims, survivors and their families as well as the public concern that reparations have taken too long,” she said.
She added that the commission remains committed to delivering “a human rights-based compensation and reparations framework” that ensures justice for those affected.
KNCHR emphasized that compensation alone does not constitute full reparations. According to the commission, a comprehensive programme should also include restitution, rehabilitation such as medical and psychosocial support, official acknowledgement of wrongdoing, and institutional reforms to prevent future violations.
The commission has already established technical committees bringing together commissioners, state institutions, oversight bodies, civil society organizations and representatives of victims and survivors to guide the process.
KNCHR has also called on victims of human rights violations, including those affected during protests and demonstrations, to submit supporting documentation such as medical reports, police records and post-mortem reports by April 3, 2026 for verification.
The commission urged Parliament and the National Treasury to allocate the necessary funds to support the process.
“The commission reiterates its unwavering commitment to the rule of law, safeguarding human rights, and securing appropriate redress for all victims and survivors,” Ogangah said.