The fashion supply chain is deeply entangled with modern slavery
An estimated 1 in 5 cotton garments globally is linked to forced labor, especially in high-risk regions like Xinjiang, China. Fast fashion often relies on outsourced labor in unregulated factories where workers are paid below living wages, endure long hours, and lack basic protections. Fabric production, dyeing, and garment sewing often involve trafficked or undocumented workers, with little transparency in sourcing. The push for low-cost production drives exploitation at every level of the supply chain.
Kenya is both a source, transit, and destination country for human trafficking
Girls and young women are often trafficked for domestic servitude, sexual exploitation, or forced labor, frequently moved from rural areas to cities. Trafficking occurs internally and across borders with neighbouring countries like Uganda and Tanzania, as well as the Middle East. Fake job recruiters often target vulnerable individuals with promises of employment, education, or migration.
Human trafficking disproportionately affects women and girls
71% of all trafficking victims globally are women and girls. Most are trafficked for sexual exploitation or unpaid domestic labor. Survivors face long-term challenges including trauma, lack of access to justice, stigma, and limited economic independence. Trafficking is often fueled by gender inequality, poverty, conflict, and lack of education.
Digital platforms are increasingly used by traffickers
Social media and messaging apps are used to groom and lure victims under false pretenses, such as romantic relationships, modeling jobs, or scholarships. Victims are often targeted through fake job listings and recruitment scams, especially in rural or low-income communities. In Kenya and globally, traffickers exploit the digital space with alarming ease, highlighting the need for digital safety education and monitoring.