The BBC has stood by its investigation into child sexual exploitation in Kenya after the government labeled it a "hoax." Interior Minister Kipchumba Murkomen claimed the documentary was fake, arguing the interviewees were not minors but adults recounting past abuses. The BBC clarified that the documentary featured adults sharing their experiences of past abuse without any financial compensation offered for their contributions.

In response to the criticism, the BBC emphasized that the investigation was a crucial piece of public interest journalism, having handed over evidence to Kenyan police in March. While the police assured action would be taken, including measures to protect vulnerable children, no arrests have been made of the implicated traffickers.

The documentary highlighted distressing cases of minors as young as 13 being trafficked for sex in Maai Mahiu, a known transit town in Kenya's Rift Valley. Footage showed the normalization of child trafficking, with individuals admitting to manipulating minors. Following the documentary's release in August, it garnered over a million views on YouTube, raising awareness of the urgent issue.

Despite the backlash from government officials asserting that the documentary tarnished Kenya's image, the BBC remains dedicated to highlighting critical social issues. As the investigation continues, the accountability for child protection hangs in the balance, with a fervent call for justice and action directed at local authorities.