Victims of protest-related human rights violations could begin receiving compensation as early as next week after the government announced that verification of claims is nearing completion.
The compensation programme, which covers cases linked to demonstrations and civil unrest between 2017 and 2024, is part of a broader national reparations framework aimed at addressing past injustices and supporting affected families.
The announcement was made at State House during the launch of the Report on the Framework for Reparations for Victims of Human Rights Violations.
Senior Presidential Advisor on Constitutional Affairs Makau Mutua said authorities were in the final stages of verifying thousands of claims before releasing the first payments.
“The panel, Your Excellency, is now subjecting all of these names to verification assisted by its AI-integrated case management system and will be in a position to begin making payments in a short time, as a week from today,” Mutua said.
Verification enters final stage
According to Mutua, the compensation panel is using an artificial intelligence-powered case management system to verify claims and enhance transparency in the process.
The verification exercise is intended to ensure that only legitimate claimants benefit from the programme while reducing the risk of fraud and duplication.
Officials say the initiative represents one of the most comprehensive attempts by the government to address grievances arising from years of protest-related violence and alleged human rights abuses.
The compensation programme emerged from recommendations contained in the National Dialogue Committee (NADCO) report, which sought to address longstanding political and social concerns following periods of unrest.
More than 1,500 claims under review
Government agencies have already submitted thousands of cases for consideration.
According to officials, the compensation panel has received approximately 1,100 names from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) and another 200 from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
Additional submissions have been made by institutions including the National Police Service (NPS), Kenya Prisons Service (KPS), and the National Youth Service (NYS).
Authorities have also recorded more than 160 claims involving damaged businesses and economic losses suffered during demonstrations.
The compensation package will cover a wide range of victims, including those who suffered injuries, torture, abductions, sexual violence, property destruction, and families who lost loved ones during protest-related incidents.
Government allocates Sh2 billion for payouts
To facilitate the programme, the government has set aside Ksh2 billion in the 2025/2026 financial year.
Officials say the funds will support compensation for both civilians and security officers affected by violence during demonstrations.
Applicants seeking compensation must provide supporting documents, including police reports, medical records, hospital discharge summaries, and Occurrence Book extracts. Families pursuing claims related to deaths are required to submit post-mortem reports and witness statements.
The documentation will be used to verify eligibility before payments are approved.
Test of Kenya’s reparations agenda
The compensation initiative is being viewed as a major milestone in Kenya’s efforts to promote accountability and restorative justice.
Human rights advocates have long called for recognition and support for victims affected by political unrest, arguing that compensation is an important step toward healing and reconciliation.
With verification now entering its final phase, attention is turning to the government’s ability to deliver payments promptly and transparently.
If successful, the programme could mark a significant chapter in Kenya’s ongoing efforts to address historical human rights violations and rebuild public trust in state institutions.
