Kenya has been ranked position two in Africa for human trafficking, highlighting growing concerns about the country’s role as a hub for the exploitation of vulnerable people across the continent.
Human trafficking remains a serious issue in Kenya, where traffickers exploit both Kenyan citizens and migrants from neighbouring states for forced labour, sexual exploitation, and other forms of modern slavery.
Trafficking networks have become increasingly sophisticated, often operating across borders and taking advantage of weak oversight and corruption.
The ranking comes amid wider concerns over organised crime in the country.
Other recent analyses show that Kenya is among the leading nations in Africa for criminal markets such as financial crimes, cybercrime, and drug trafficking, conditions that create fertile ground for human trafficking activities.
Experts say Kenya’s geographic position makes it a source, transit, and destination country, with routes extending to the Middle East, Europe, and within Africa. Vulnerable groups—including women, children, and migrants—are often targeted by criminal gangs that exploit economic hardship and gaps in law enforcement.
In recent years, the government has taken steps to strengthen anti‑trafficking laws, including criminalising trafficking under the Counter‑Trafficking in Persons Act and collaborating with international partners.
However, critics argue that enforcement remains inconsistent and that prosecution of traffickers is still limited.
Civil society organisations are calling for greater transparency, stronger victim support services, and better coordination among law enforcement agencies to dismantle trafficking networks and protect vulnerable populations.
The ranking serves as a stark reminder that while Kenya has made progress in awareness and legislation, human trafficking continues to be a pressing issue demanding urgent and sustained action.
