Unveiling the hidden costs: An in-depth examination of the economic impact of sexual and gender-based violence on women in Nairobi, Kenya

Abstract

Sexual and Gender-Based Violence (SGBV) in Kenya disproportionately affects women, resulting in severe socio-economic repercussions. This study examines the hidden economic costs of SGBV and emphasizes the need for targeted policy interventions. The impacts include lost work, decreased quality of life, disrupted education, increased health-related costs, and family instability. Current research has focused mainly on direct service costs, neglecting indirect and long-term costs. This study addresses this gap by evaluating both direct and indirect costs among 32 survivors from Nairobi County who underwent recovery programs. Findings indicate an average loss of 67,500 KES (675 USD) due to seeking help, lost workdays, children's missed schooling, and domestic work hours. It underscores the necessity for expanded policies to address the extensive economic repercussions of SGBV in Kenya. The study sites include the Nairobi Women's Hospital Gender Recovery Centre (NWH GVRC), Centre for Domestic Training and Development (CDTD), Talia Agler Girls Shelter (TAGS) and Women's Empowerment Link (WEL). Data was collected through face-to-face interviews and key informant interviews with program managers. Qualitative data focused on GBV experiences, risks, coping, and health impacts, while quantitative data covered direct (medical, legal, counselling, shelter, transport) and indirect costs (Lost Work Days, Lost Domestic Work), analysed using accounting methodologies.