The Cost of Silence: A Diagnostic on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV) - Women's rights, voice and participation in Kenya's digital age.

As Kenya's digital economy continues to expand, technology-facilitated gender-based violence (TFGBV) is emerging as a significant barrier to women's rights, safety and participation online. The Cost of Silence: A Diagnostic on Technology-Facilitated Gender-Based Violence (TFGBV), commissioned by UN Women Kenya under the DigiKen Programme, provides the first comprehensive assessment of the nature, drivers, impacts and institutional responses to TFGBV in Kenya.

Drawing on qualitative research conducted in Nairobi, Kisumu and Mombasa, complemented by national and international evidence, the study reveals that women and girls continue to experience online harassment, cyberstalking, non-consensual sharing of intimate images, doxing, sextortion, AI-generated deepfakes and coordinated online attacks. These forms of violence extend beyond digital spaces, affecting women's mental health, livelihoods, political participation and physical safety.

The report identifies significant gaps in Kenya's legal, policy and institutional frameworks, including the absence of a nationally recognized definition of TFGBV, limited platform accountability and insufficient survivor-centred response mechanisms. It underscores the need for coordinated action by government, technology companies, civil society, development partners and the United Nations.

To strengthen prevention and response, the report proposes seven strategic recommendations, including legal reforms, enhanced platform accountability, survivor-centred support services, social and behaviour change initiatives, protection for women in politics, integration of TFGBV into Kenya's digital economy agenda and stronger investment in data and evidence.

The findings provide a critical evidence base to inform national policy, legislative reforms and programmes that promote safe, inclusive and gender-responsive digital spaces for all.