Men preying on schoolgirls in Embu warned

From right: Former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti, Catholic Diocese Embu Bishop Paul Kariuki and Embu County Commissioner Abdullahi Galgalo at the churches Cathedral in Karurina where Kivuti donated handwashing containers. [Joseph Muchiri, Standard]

Embu County Commissioner Abdullahi Galgalo has warned of dire consequences to men preying on school girls during this Covid-19 pandemic when schools are closed.

Galgalo condemned the perpetrators of the acts, saying they will be dealt with as per the law.

He said men preying on schoolgirls should be dealt with punitively considering schools will remain closed until January, adding that it is everyone’s responsibility to protect the girls.

Noting that the minors must be protected at all costs, the administrator told off married men who also eye schoolgirls.

“I appeal to parents to keep their children busy while at home to avoid the minors falling prey to the wrong company such as negative peers and men who prey on young girls,” said Galgalo.

The statements came at a time when young girls across the country have recorded an increased number of unwanted pregnancy.

Galgalo also warned bar operators who are illegally opening the outlets that they will be prosecuted in addition to having their trading licences canceled.

He spoke during a ceremony where former Embu Senator Lenny Kivuti donated 1,300 handwashing containers to churches in the county to enable them enhance hygiene as recommended by the Ministry of Health in the fight against Covid-19.

Kivuti said the disease affects all and everyone should play thei role in stopping its spread.

“The continued community spread of Covid-19 calls all of us to lead and offer simple and affordable solutions to contain the pandemic,” said Kivuti, who three months ago also donated 35,000 face masks to vulnerable residents.

Receiving the donation for the Catholic Diocese, Embu Bishop Paul Kariuki said the aid will go a long way in helping the churches meet the guidelines and protocols from the Health ministry.

He revealed that the priests had resolved to be spending five or 10 minutes during mass to educate the congregation on the pandemic.