Exploring Non-partner Violence in Informal Settlements in Nairobi, Kenya.

This article examines non-partner violence (NPV)—violence perpetrated by individuals other than intimate partners—and its association with intimate partner violence (IPV) among women living in Mathare, a large informal settlement in Nairobi, Kenya. Using survey data from 552 women collected in 2018, the study found that about 16% experienced past-year physical or sexual NPV, nearly half experienced IPV, and over 11% experienced both, indicating a strong correlation and suggesting significant poly-victimization. Key correlates of NPV included alcohol use, relationship status, and frequent problems with family, friends, or authority figures, while common perpetrators were neighbors, family members, friends, and authority figures. The findings highlight the need for further research on NPV and poly-victimization in informal settlements, considering their unique social, economic, and environmental contexts that may exacerbate violence and its health consequences for women.