Without a Trace: Families Demand Justice for Kenya’s Missing
Kenya continues to face cases of enforced disappearance, with families still seeking answers years after relatives allegedly vanished while in police custody or following arrests.
For many families, the uncertainty remains deeply painful. The mother of Mwenda Mbijiwe has spent years pursuing legal action to establish that her son disappeared while in police custody. Like many others, she has been left without clear information about whether her son is alive or dead.
The family of Daniel Baru Nyamohanga has also spent nearly a decade searching for answers after he was allegedly arrested in Migori County. Although the state maintains that he was released, a 2017 court order by Justice Anthony Mrima directing an investigation has yet to bring closure.
The experiences of these families reflect a wider pattern seen in Kenya over many years. One of the most prominent cases involved lawyer Willie Kimani, his client Josephat Mwenda and their driver Joseph Muiruri, who were abducted and murdered by police officers in 2016.
Several officers were later convicted, including Frederick Leliman, who received a death sentence. The case was regarded as a rare example of accountability, although reports of disappearances have continued.
Recent data shows a decline in reported cases, but concerns remain. According to Missing Voices, six enforced disappearances were recorded in Kenya in 2025, compared with 55 in 2024. However, dozens of cases have been reported each year since 2021.
The figures point to continuing concerns about public safety and the effectiveness of investigations into such incidents. Some cases have involved particularly disturbing circumstances. In 2021, four friends were abducted in Kitengela after a night out.
Their bodies were later found in different counties, while two of the victims were never recovered. In the same year, police officer Joseph Otieno disappeared after leaving General Service Unit headquarters in Nairobi. His case was linked to allegations of involvement in the illegal sale of ammunition.
In 2022, two Indian nationals working with President William Ruto’s campaign team and their Kenyan driver were abducted. Although arrests were made, the case was later dismissed in court.
Human rights organisations and legal groups have called for reforms to address the issue. The Law Society of Kenya has criticised the government for failing to implement key measures, including the National Coroners Service Act.
The organisation has also supported the introduction of body-worn cameras for police officers. Missing Voices has called for enforced disappearance to be recognised as a specific criminal offence, arguing that existing laws often result in lesser charges such as abduction.
The issue has also been linked to periods of political unrest. During the 2024 Gen Z protests against the Finance Bill, several demonstrators were reported missing. Some were later found dead, while others remain unaccounted for. These incidents renewed concerns about the treatment of protesters and the conduct of state agencies during public demonstrations.
Advocates have also highlighted the need for stronger support systems for affected families. The Victims Protection Act of 2024 provides for comprehensive assistance to victims and their relatives, but many of its provisions have not yet been fully implemented.
According to IJM Kenya director Vincent Chahale, the lack of coordinated support services leaves many families facing the consequences of disappearances without adequate assistance. Enforced disappearances remain a significant human rights challenge in Kenya.
