By Cynthia Okoth
Teenage pregnancy, child marriages, FGM, and violence against children have been rampart issues in Migori county caused by factors such as poverty, limited education, and restricted access to reproductive health services, particularly affecting young girls.
Teenage pregnancy goes beyond health concerns, with complications during pregnancy and childbirth posing alarming risks, raising maternal and infant mortality rates. African Institute for Development Policy (AFIDEP) ranked Kenya third worldwide in 2019, with cases of teenage pregnancies recording a total of 175,488 cases. The AFIDEP survey ranked Migori tenth among the top counties in Kenya with high teenage pregnancy prevalent cases reported at health facilities, recording a total of 4,960 in 2019 and 4411 in 2020.
Child marriages force girls into unions prematurely, leading to poverty cycles. Combating this issue will require awareness campaigns, legal reforms, and empowerment programs focusing on education and alternative skills for sustainability.
FGM inflicts severe physical and psychological effects on young girls. The battle against FGM goes beyond legal measures, demanding intensive community engagement, education, and cultural awareness programs. Breaking this harmful tradition requires not only legislation but also a transformation in societal attitudes and beliefs. Empowering communities with knowledge and fostering open dialogue can contribute to eradicating FGM and ensuring the safety of Migori’s young girls.
Violence against children, spanning physical, sexual, and emotional abuse, remains a pressing concern in Migori. The silent suffering of many children and the long-term consequences of such abuse are distrustful for individuals and the community. Creating a safer place for children needs the establishment of safe spaces for reporting abuse, stricter legal measures against perpetrators. By addressing violence comprehensively, Migori can create a protective environment that safeguards the future of its youngest people.
It all begins by teaching residents about the consequences the dangers of FGM, and the impact of violence on children. Holding open dialogue and breaking the silence surrounding these issues can create a supportive environment for victims to come forward, and speak against these vices.
Collaboration between government agencies, non-profit organizations, and local communities is very key. Strengthening of child protection services, advocacy for policies safeguarding children’s rights collectively contribute to building a safer, healthier, place for young people in Migori.
Comprehensively FGM, and violence against children can pave the way for lasting positive change. Residents must also play a crucial role by reporting perpetuators of FGM, in order to help find justice for the victims.
By Cynthia Okoth
