WANANCHI OPINION: Urgent action needs to be taken against cases of incest during the festive season

Incest, defined as sexual relationships between close family members, is both a legal and moral transgression in Kenya, as it is in most societies.

However, disturbing reports of its increase during the December festive season have sparked concern. This troubling trend can be linked to a combination of sociocultural, economic, and psychological factors that converge during this time of year.

To address the problem effectively, it is crucial to examine the underlying causes and identify actionable solutions.

Familial Proximity and Emotional Intensity. 

December is a time when families traditionally come together to celebrate holidays like Christmas and New Year. In many cultures, this season encourages familial bonding through shared meals, traditions, and physical proximity.

However, in some cases, prolonged time spent in confined spaces can lead to unintended consequences, particularly in dysfunctional families.

Family members who may already have blurred boundaries or unresolved emotional tensions might find their interactions intensified during this period. In such settings, inappropriate or exploitative behaviours could arise due to weakened personal or moral inhibitions, particularly where there is a lack of external oversight.

Alcohol and Substance Abuse. Festive seasons are often accompanied by increased consumption of alcohol and, in some cases, recreational drugs.

Studies have consistently shown that substance abuse can impair judgment, reduce inhibitions, and exacerbate risky behaviours, including sexual misconduct. In environments where substance abuse is prevalent, individuals may engage in behaviour they would otherwise consider unacceptable.

This factor is particularly significant in families where there is already a history of abuse or neglect, as substances can act as catalysts that lower boundaries further. It is important to note that substance abuse does not excuse such behaviour but may contribute to its occurrence in certain cases.

Psychological Vulnerabilities and Past Trauma. 

Another contributing factor could be unresolved trauma within families. The holiday season can evoke nostalgia and emotional vulnerability, resurfacing memories of past experiences—both good and bad. In families where incestuous abuse has occurred previously, the stress and emotional complexity of the festive season might create an environment where past cycles of abuse are perpetuated.

For victims of past abuse, the festive season may also increase their exposure to abusers due to family gatherings. This proximity, coupled with societal pressure to maintain a façade of unity, can create conditions where abuse is more likely to recur.

Weakening of Traditional Values. 

Historically, Kenyan societies had strict cultural and moral codes that strongly prohibited incest. These values were reinforced through communal oversight and traditional rites of passage that emphasized respect for family boundaries. However, the influence of modernization and urbanization has weakened these traditional structures in some communities.

As people adopt more individualistic lifestyles, the communal frameworks that once provided moral guidance and accountability are eroding. This cultural shift, coupled with the normalization of certain taboo topics has diminished the stigma around issues like incest in some contexts.

Social Isolation and Lack of External Interactions. The festive season is also characterized by a slowdown in societal activity, with schools, workplaces, and many community organizations shutting down for holidays. For families experiencing isolation, this period might limit access to external support systems such as friends, teachers, or counsellors who could otherwise intervene.

For individuals living in abusive environments, the lack of external engagement can heighten their vulnerability. Perpetrators may exploit this isolation, knowing that victims have fewer avenues to seek help during the holiday season.

Economic and Social Pressures. Kenya faces significant economic challenges, and the December festive season can amplify financial strain on families. Many households spend beyond their means to organize celebrations, purchase gifts, and travel. This financial stress can exacerbate existing familial tensions, making some family members vulnerable to exploitation.

In some cases, power dynamics rooted in financial dependency contribute to abuse. For instance, younger family members who rely on older relatives for financial support may feel coerced into silence when abuse occurs. This dynamic is further complicated by Kenya’s high unemployment rates, which leave many youths idle and economically dependent on their families.

Psychological Factors. Mental health challenges, including untreated psychological disorders, are another contributing factor. Unfortunately, access to mental health services in Kenya remains limited, leaving many individuals without the support they need to address their issues.

Lack of Awareness and Education. 

Kenya’s culture of silence surrounding sexuality has contributed to widespread ignorance about appropriate sexual behaviour. Many families avoid discussing topics related to sex, relationships, and personal boundaries, leaving young people ill-equipped to navigate complex social situations.

Furthermore, the absence of comprehensive sex education in many schools exacerbates this problem. Without proper guidance, young people may not fully understand the boundaries of acceptable behaviour, increasing the likelihood of risky or exploitative interactions.

To combat the rise of incest during the December festive season, a multifaceted approach is necessary.

 Education and Awareness. Comprehensive sex education should be integrated into school curricula to teach young people about personal boundaries, consent, and the importance of healthy relationships. Families should also be encouraged to engage in open and honest discussions about these topics.

Strengthening Legal Frameworks. The government must enforce laws against incest more rigorously, ensuring that perpetrators are held accountable. At the same time, victims should have access to safe reporting channels and legal support.

Community Engagement. Community leaders, religious institutions, and local organizations can play a crucial role in promoting values that discourage incest. They can also provide support systems for victims and raise awareness about the issue.

Addressing Substance Abuse. Public campaigns aimed at reducing alcohol and substance abuse during the festive season can help minimize one of the key risk factors for incest.

Improving Economic Conditions. Programs that address poverty and unemployment, particularly among young people, can help reduce financial dependency and create healthier family dynamics.

Expanding Mental Health Services.Access to affordable mental health care should be prioritized to address underlying psychological issues and provide support for victims and perpetrators alike.

The rise of incest during the December festive season in Kenya is a multifaceted issue that requires urgent attention. By addressing the sociocultural, economic, and psychological factors that contribute to this problem, Kenyan society can create safer environments for families. Through education, community involvement, and improved access to resources, it is possible to break the cycle of abuse and safeguard the well-being of future generations.