*Trigger warning: This article contains mention of rape, physical abuse, and suicide. 

Kenyan domestic workers in Saudi Arabia have come forward with harrowing accounts of sexual abuse—this time, not only from employers but from Kenyan diplomats. A shocking New York Times report reveals that some embassy officials allegedly preyed on the very women they are tasked to protect.

Exploiting the exploited

In 2020, Selestine Kemoli worked as a maid in Saudi Arabia under brutal conditions. Her employer reportedly slashed her breasts with a paring knife, raped her, and forced her to drink urine. Desperate to return home to her children, Kemoli sought help at the Kenyan embassy in Riyadh.

But instead of support, she faced more abuse. When Kemoli shared her experience with embassy diplomat, Robinson Juma Twanga, his response was astonishing. As highlighted by the Deccan Herald, Twanga reportedly said:

“You are beautiful…I will sleep with you, just the same way your boss has slept with you,”

Other Kenyan women have shared similar experiences with Twanga. They say he requested sex or money in exchange for a ticket home and even suggested they turn to sex work. Several women also reported being exploited by other embassy officials.

Faith Gathuo arrived in Saudi Arabia in 2014. After her employer raped and beat her—leaving her pregnant—she went to the embassy for help. An embassy official offered to help—for money and sex. Despite giving him all her money, she received no assistance and ultimately faced deportation.

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