By Ebi Kesiena
A coalition of lobbyists is advocating for the decriminalization of sex work in Kenya, arguing that legal reforms are necessary to protect sex workers’ rights, ensure their safety, improve healthcare access, and promote economic security.
Women Collective Kenya, KELIN, and Knight Nurse, three non-governmental organizations, highlighted the systemic discrimination, violence, and legal injustices that perpetuate the marginalization of sex workers.
“Decriminalization would foster better relationships between sex workers and law enforcement, reducing exploitation and abuse. It would also allow government agencies and civil societies to implement harm reduction strategies and provide more effective support services,” the lobbyists stated.
Their push gained momentum following the presentation of a policy document, Decriminalisation of Sex Work, to Nairobi Woman Representative Esther Passaris on Friday.
Executive Director of Women Collective Kenya, Ruth Mumbi, emphasized the need to repeal Sections 153, 154, and 155 of the Penal Code, which she said expose sex workers to violence and exploitation.
Passaris, after receiving the document, pledged her support for sex workers’ social protection and expressed commitment to introducing a bill to decriminalize sex work.
“Through the National Government Affirmative Action Fund, I will advocate for their social protection and champion the repeal of these penal code sections,” she stated.
Mumbi stressed that decriminalization is a critical step toward dignity, safety, and justice for sex workers.
“Sex work is work,” she said.
The policy document outlines how Kenya’s current legal framework criminalizes sex work, exposing workers to police harassment, arbitrary arrests, and economic instability. It also restricts their access to justice and safe working conditions.
Additionally, criminalization has worsened public health concerns, with female sex workers facing an HIV prevalence rate of 29.3% and encountering barriers to healthcare due to stigma and discrimination.
Despite legal restrictions, sex work remains a vital source of income, with over 60% of sex workers supporting dependents. However, existing laws push them into unsafe environments without economic stability or social protection.
The lobbyists cited New Zealand’s decriminalization model as a successful example, demonstrating that legal reforms can enhance occupational safety, improve access to justice, and boost public health outcomes.
