The BBC's investigative report into child sexual exploitation in Kenya is under scrutiny following statements from the government, who have dismissed the findings as "fake." Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen voiced concerns in parliament, asserting that those featured in the documentary were adults feigning youth. However, the BBC clarified that interviews showcased adults detailing past abuses they endured during their childhood.
The broadcaster emphasized that no financial incentives were given to participants, contrary to government claims, and pointed out that the investigation aimed to raise awareness about serious issues of child trafficking. The documentary has already garnered over one million views since its release on August 4.
In the documentary, two women admitted to trafficking minors for sexual exploitation in Maai Mahiu, a trucking center notorious for such crimes. They described the ease of manipulation due to the young age of the girls involved, some as young as 13. BBC footage captured these confessions, revealing the troubling normalization of prostitution in the area.
In response to the findings, the Kenyan Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has initiated an investigation, although the two women implicated have yet to be apprehended. Murkomen maintains that the Kenyan government is committed to tackling child trafficking, while the BBC stands by its reporting as crucial and factually based.
The broadcaster emphasized that no financial incentives were given to participants, contrary to government claims, and pointed out that the investigation aimed to raise awareness about serious issues of child trafficking. The documentary has already garnered over one million views since its release on August 4.
In the documentary, two women admitted to trafficking minors for sexual exploitation in Maai Mahiu, a trucking center notorious for such crimes. They described the ease of manipulation due to the young age of the girls involved, some as young as 13. BBC footage captured these confessions, revealing the troubling normalization of prostitution in the area.
In response to the findings, the Kenyan Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has initiated an investigation, although the two women implicated have yet to be apprehended. Murkomen maintains that the Kenyan government is committed to tackling child trafficking, while the BBC stands by its reporting as crucial and factually based.
