Five minors defiled in Taita Taveta every week, says state official

Twenty-seven minors were defiled in Taita Taveta County last month, authorities say, raising the red flag over rights violations against girls.

County Commissioner Rodah Onyancha, while quoting figures from the National Crime Centre (NCC), called on political and religious leaders to stand up against vices that had led to pregnancies, early marriages and school drop-outs.

"The recent figures released by the NCC are baffling. We need a conversation with men and other stakeholders about rising defilement cases,” she said in Mwatate town.

The administrator challenged parents to take proper care of their children, especially during this period when they are home due to the Covid-19 pandemic.

"Many school girls are becoming parents at an early age. The trend is negatively affecting girl child education in the region. We need to address these vices even as we hunt down those who are molesting minors," said Ms Onyancha.

The administrator said she was aware that money was exchanging hands between corrupt administrators and relative of suspects who often buy their freedom.

Onyancha, at the same time, directed chiefs and elders under the Nyumba Kumi initiative to intensify outreach programmes that would address drug abuse cases.

"We have intensified the war on drugs among other vices. The public should volunteer information that can lead to the arrest of those destroying the lives of young Kenyans."

Sauti Ya Wanawake official Edith Ogola claimed the rights of women and girls were being violated with the full knowledge of the authorities.

"We are raising the alarm and demanding that action be taken to arrest the situation. The national and county governments should do more to safeguard the rights of vulnerable groups in the region."