The Public Service Commission of Kenya has raised concern over increasing cases of sexual harassment, exploitation, and psychological abuse targeting interns deployed under the Public Service Internship Programme (PSIP).
The commission warned senior government officers against mistreating interns placed under their supervision, saying reports of abuse within ministries and public institutions have become alarming.
Speaking during the opening of a capacity-building workshop for PSIP mentors and coaches in Naivasha on May 25, 2026, PSC Chairperson Francis Meja said some cases of abuse had resulted in severe emotional trauma and even suicide among interns.
“As mentors and coaches, you are the first line of defence. You are obligated to create safe, respectful, and dignified environments for every intern. Any form of abuse whether physical, emotional, or sexual is not only a betrayal of public trust but also a criminal offence,” said Meja.
The warning comes months after young lawyers and interns staged demonstrations in Nairobi over alleged sexual harassment, exploitation, and intimidation by senior officers in workplaces and professional institutions.
PSC Internship Programme Beneficiaries Reach 37,000
Despite the challenges, the commission highlighted the success of the Public Service Internship Programme, noting that 37,504 graduates have benefited from PSIP since its inception.
According to PSC, many of the interns have secured employment opportunities in both the public and private sectors after completing the programme.
The commission said the internship initiative continues to play an important role in equipping Kenyan graduates with work experience, mentorship, and professional exposure.
Sexual Harassment in Kenyan Workplaces Remains a Major Concern
Sexual harassment remains one of the major challenges affecting young professionals, interns, and employees in Kenya. Cases often involve abuse of power by senior officers, coercion, intimidation, unwanted advances, and exploitation in exchange for employment opportunities, promotions, or favourable treatment.
Young women, interns, and junior employees are among the most vulnerable groups due to unequal power dynamics in workplaces.
Experts have also warned that workplace harassment can lead to anxiety, depression, low self-esteem, poor job performance, trauma, and withdrawal from career opportunities.
Sexual Harassment Statistics in Kenya
Reports from various organisations and human rights groups have shown that many cases of workplace sexual harassment in Kenya go unreported due to fear of victimisation, job loss, stigma, or lack of trust in reporting systems.
Cases involving interns and young professionals have increasingly drawn public attention, especially on social media, where victims continue to share experiences of exploitation and abuse in workplaces and institutions of higher learning.
Human rights organisations have repeatedly called for stronger workplace protections, enforcement of anti-harassment policies, and safe reporting channels for victims.
Laws Against Sexual Harassment in Kenya
Kenya has several laws aimed at protecting employees and interns from workplace harassment and abuse.
The Employment Act, 2007 requires employers with more than 20 employees to establish policies addressing sexual harassment in the workplace. The law defines sexual harassment as unwanted sexual advances, requests for sexual favours, or conduct of a sexual nature that creates a hostile working environment.
The Constitution of Kenya also guarantees every person the right to dignity, equality, freedom from discrimination, and protection from abuse.
Additionally, the Sexual Offences Act criminalises sexual abuse, exploitation, and harassment, with offenders facing legal consequences upon conviction.
Calls for Safer Work Environments for Interns
The PSC has urged public officers, mentors, and supervisors to uphold professionalism and create safe spaces for interns and young workers.
Stakeholders are also calling for stronger accountability systems, mental health support, confidential reporting mechanisms, and stricter disciplinary action against perpetrators.
The commission emphasised that internship programmes should empower young people and prepare them for future careers rather than expose them to exploitation and abuse.
As conversations around workplace safety continue in Kenya, many young professionals are now demanding dignity, respect, and safer environments free from harassment and intimidation.
About the Author
