A UK parliamentary inquiry has found that British soldiers stationed at the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) continue to engage with sex workers despite a ban imposed in 2012.
The House of Commons Defence Committee said testimony from local groups, NGOs and witnesses indicated sex work around the Nanyuki base had not been eliminated. The committee highlighted risks of exploitation, coercion, underpayment and violence, including reports of cases involving individuals under the age of majority.
Lawmakers warned that such conduct damages the ethical standards of the armed forces and could strain diplomatic ties with Kenya.
The report also criticized enforcement at the base, citing a lack of regular monitoring and weak disciplinary action against personnel. Complaint procedures for local civilians were described as inadequate.
Among its recommendations, the committee called for stronger oversight through random inspections, closer cooperation with Kenyan police and improved reporting channels for victims. Addressing underlying poverty and unemployment in the area was also seen as essential to tackling the issue.
The Ministry of Defence said it takes allegations of misconduct seriously and is reviewing the findings. Kenya’s government has not yet issued a formal response.
