A 22-year-old domestic worker, Shanny Atieno, is battling for her life at Kenyatta National Hospital after reportedly leaping from the fourth floor of Jumuira Heights in Nairobi.
Atieno claims she jumped to escape her employer’s relentless abuse, which included beatings with objects like knives, cooking sticks, and rollers.
Atieno, employed for less than two months, endured severe injuries in the fall, including a spinal fracture and a broken leg.
This follows earlier medical records revealing treatment for head injuries, allegedly caused by physical assaults.
Months of Abuse and Threats
Atieno recounted chilling threats from her employer, identified as Lavender Akinyi Ojilo, who allegedly warned she could harm her without consequence. “She told me others before me had disappeared,” Atieno revealed.
The victim’s sister corroborated these claims, saying the employer had a history of menacing behavior toward domestic workers.
Police records link Lavender to previous criminal activities, including burglary and theft in Kileleshwa in 2018 and 2019.
In April this year, she was arrested for her involvement in house break-ins. Despite her criminal history, Lavender denies the allegations against her.
Family Demands Justice
Atieno’s family dismisses claims that the incident stemmed from depression and urges authorities to conduct a comprehensive investigation.
call for greater protection and justice for domestic workers, who often suffer abuse with little recourse.
A Wake-Up Call for Reforms
This case underscores the dire need for stricter laws and protections for domestic workers in Kenya.
Advocates stress the importance of creating awareness about their rights, ensuring accountability for abusive employers, and addressing systemic challenges in the sector.
Atieno’s tragic ordeal has sparked national outrage, highlighting the silent suffering of many domestic workers and prompting calls for urgent action to prevent such cases in the future.
