NAIROBI — The Kenyan government has unveiled a landmark compensation program targeting nearly 2,000 victims of protest-related violence and human rights abuses, in one of the country's most significant reparations initiatives to date. President William Ruto said the compensation process will begin following a vetting exercise led by the national human rights commission.

The program is expected to provide financial support to individuals and families affected by years of political demonstrations, including those who suffered injuries, loss of property, or other damages during periods of unrest. Officials say the initiative is designed to recognize victims' suffering and promote national healing.

According to government estimates, the compensation package could benefit victims from multiple protest waves that have occurred across Kenya in recent years, many of which resulted in casualties, injuries, and significant economic disruption. Human rights organizations have welcomed the move as a rare example of state-led reparations outside traditional court proceedings.

Political analysts say the announcement comes at a critical time as Kenya seeks to strengthen public trust, improve accountability, and address longstanding concerns over human rights violations linked to demonstrations and civil unrest.