The government has raised concern over rising teenage pregnancies in Kakamega.
At least 50 cases are reported in the Mumias West subcounty every month. This is according to a report from the Ministry of Health.
The report was endorsed by the subcounty reproductive health coordinator Mary Kunyo who revealed that the affected girls are aged between 12 to 16.
Speaking during an event hosted by the International Committee for the Development of Peoples at Musanda, Mumias West, Kunyo said the figure means the subcounty is the most affected by teenage pregnancies in the region.
“Every month we record at least 50 cases of teenage pregnancies here. But those are just the ones we get to know of because there are many others that go unreported,” Kunyo said.
She blamed the rise on parents for failing to play their oversight role in their children’s behavior and upbringing.
Kunyo said the girl child has been abandoned to the care of teachers and organisations while parents take a back seat.
“Parents are not advising their girls and helping them make positive decisions. That work has been left to teachers and NGOs,” she said.
She urged parents not to give up on their girls and ensure the victims of teenage pregnancies and teenage mothers go to school and complete their education.
“Let the parents know that they can still educate their girls even when they are pregnant or after giving birth. It’s not the end of the road. Just focus on what the girl can become not the mistakes they made," Kunyo said.
She said teenage pregnancies shouldn’t be a reason why young girls are denied a chance to achieve their dreams and become better citizens.
“We have organisations like CISP who have played a huge role in mentorship, awareness creation and guiding these young mothers. We are asking parents to equally pull their weight and ensure girls in such situations complete their studies,"she said.
Child protection officer Fredrick Omollo said they have partnered with CISP to ensure all pregnant teenagers in the region receive the necessary support to clear their education.
“It’s a continuous programme where 25 girls were taken through comprehensive mentorship sessions by CISP twice every month. We also ensure they access education support like bursaries and support kits," Omollo said.
The subcounty children officer Dorcas Wakasa urged for collective responsibility in the protection of children of all genders.
She urged the community to join hands in the war against child abuse and exploitation of whichever form.
“The new 2022 Children's Act calls for a collective responsibility to protect children. Gender is an inclusive matter. Child abuse and exploitation in any form should be fought, including GBV," Wakasa said.
"Parents try and provide a conducive environment for your children."
(Edited by Tabnacha O)
