The National Cohesion and Integration Commission (NCIC) has confirmed it is investigating 28 active cases involving hate speech, ethnic contempt, and discrimination, in a renewed effort to safeguard national unity amid rising tensions.
NCIC Chairman Samuel Kobia on Wednesday said that out of these cases, 15 are related to ethnic contempt, four hate speech, two ethnic discrimination, and seven involve both hate speech and ethnic discrimination.
“As part of our ongoing efforts to uphold national values and prevent division, we are currently investigating 28 active cases that contravene the National Cohesion and Integration (NCI) Act No. 12 of 2008,” Kobia said.
To bolster accountability, the Commission said it will continue to use its Wall of Shame—a public registry that exposes individuals found guilty of inciting ethnic hatred or spreading hate speech.
Offenders listed may be barred from contesting or being appointed to public office.
“This initiative serves as a deterrent and a clear message that such behaviour will not be tolerated in any form,” Kobia stated.
In addition to enforcement measures, the NCIC called on all Kenyans to actively promote unity and cohesion, further urging citizens to rise above political and ethnic divisions.
“We call upon all Kenyans to rise above political expediency and ethnic loyalties and take their rightful place in shaping a cohesive and peaceful future.”
“Let us embrace courage, truth, and solidarity—guided by the spirit of our National Anthem—and walk together toward a peaceful and united Kenya. The future of our nation depends on the choices we make today. Let us choose unity. Let us choose Kenya,” Kobia urged.
NCIC has also launched a nationwide hotspot mapping initiative as part of its early preparations for the 2027 general elections.
The exercise aims to identify regions with a history or signs of election-related tension or violence to enable early interventions and sustained peacebuilding.
“Our goal is clear: to ensure that every part of Kenya is safe, cohesive, and peaceful before, during, and after the 2027 elections,” Kobia stated.
