If you’re a female victim of violence, assault, harassment or exploitation — or you’re helping someone who is — you need clear, simple steps you can act on right now. This guide gives practical actions you can take immediately, what to expect when you report, and where to find ongoing help. No judgment, just straightforward support.
Immediate safety first. If you’re in immediate danger, call local emergency services right away. Move to a safer place if you can — a friend’s house, a public area or a health facility. If leaving the situation isn’t safe, look for small ways to increase distance and limit contact until you can get help.
Get medical attention even if you don’t feel badly injured. Health workers can treat injuries, check for infections, and collect forensic evidence if you choose to report. Try to avoid bathing, changing clothes, or washing anything involved if you plan to preserve evidence. Pack a change of clothes in a paper bag if you must change later. Ask a trusted person to accompany you to the clinic or hospital for support.
Keep what records you can: dates, times, messages, photos of injuries, names of witnesses. Store digital evidence safely — consider moving files to a secure cloud account or an email only you can access. If the abuser controls your devices, find a trusted person to help secure evidence without putting you at risk.
Reporting to police is a personal choice. If you do report, request a record of the report and ask about your rights as a victim. Many countries in Africa have laws and units that handle gender-based violence; ask for a female officer or victim support services if you prefer. If you’re unsure, contact a local women’s organisation or legal aid group for advice before or after reporting.
Look for local NGOs, UN agencies or community groups that offer free legal advice, counselling and court support. If you can, get written information about protective orders, custody or other legal measures. If language or transport is a barrier, many organisations can connect you to translators, volunteers or safe transport options.
Emotional support and recovery. Talk to a counsellor, survivor group, or someone you trust. Therapy and peer support help reduce shame and isolation — common after trauma. If counselling in person isn’t available, check online counselling platforms or helplines run by reputable NGOs. Give yourself permission to take small steps and be patient with recovery.
If you’re supporting a friend or family member: Listen without judgment, believe them, ask what they want, and help them access services. Don’t force choices. Offer practical help — transport, company to appointments, or contact details for local support groups.
Want country-specific resources? Look for national hotlines, local women’s shelters, or UN Women country pages. These groups often keep updated lists of shelters, clinics and legal services. You don’t have to do this alone — reach out and get support.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed the recovery of six female bodies from an abandoned quarry in Kware, Nairobi. Each victim exhibited severe mutilation, wrapped in nylon and ropes. The bodies, discovered after a public tip-off, are under thorough investigation by homicide detectives and forensic experts to establish identity and circumstances.
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