The Panel of Experts on Compensation of Victims of Human Rights Violations has commenced the disbursement of KSh448.7 million to 348 verified victims in the first phase of a compensation programme covering violations committed between 2013 and 2025.
In a statement released on June 23, 2026, the panel, chaired by Professor Makau Mutua, said the compensation targets victims of different forms of human rights violations, including those arising from demonstrations and public protests.
The first phase will benefit victims across six categories of harm, with compensation amounts determined by the severity and nature of the violations suffered.
According to the breakdown, 115 beneficiaries whose cases involved fatalities will receive KSh3 million each, amounting to KSh345 million.
A further 24 victims who suffered severe injuries will receive KSh1 million each, while 137 victims classified under moderate injuries will receive KSh500,000 each.
Additionally, 60 victims with minor injuries will receive KSh50,000 each, while eight victims of aggravated sexual offences will receive KSh1 million apiece.
Four beneficiaries categorised under economic loss will receive KSh50,000 each.
The total amount allocated for the first phase stands at KSh448.7 million.
In its statement, the panel described the commencement of compensation as a significant step towards addressing the suffering experienced by victims.
“To the victims, the long wait is over. Today, we begin to make right what was wrong,” the statement read.
The panel further acknowledged the courage of victims who came forward to present their claims, assuring them of its commitment to ensuring that every verified beneficiary receives compensation.
It clarified that payments are being made only to eligible and verified victims who have consented to the compensation process, noting that consent is the final requirement before a beneficiary can receive payment.
The panel explained that all approved claims underwent an administrative process developed under the Reparations Guidelines of the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR).
The process includes registration, verification, authentication, categorisation of harm, approval and eventual disbursement.
It also assured the public that the compensation programme will continue beyond the first phase until all eligible victims have been compensated.
Meanwhile, victims who have not yet submitted their claims or provided their bank and other payment details have been urged to do so without delay.
The panel added that names of compensated beneficiaries will be published periodically in the Kenya Gazette, in accordance with the Data Protection Act, 2019.
