Children’s rights advocates have sounded the alarm over a disturbing rise in defilement cases involving children with special needs in the North Rift region, despite ongoing awareness campaigns.
Bilha Chumba, a prominent child rights defender, decried the growing number of incidents, most of which she said go unreported—thereby denying the victims justice.
“We are deeply concerned that many of these cases never see the light of day. The perpetrators are often known to the victims, yet little or no action is taken,” Chumba said. “Some local administration officers are failing in their duty to protect these vulnerable children.”
Speaking in Kapsabet town, Chumba noted that the impact of defilement on children with disabilities is far-reaching, citing increased school dropouts due to pregnancies and the risk of contracting life-threatening diseases.
ALSO READ:
“These children are already facing enormous challenges due to their disabilities. Defilement not only traumatizes them further but also robs them of their future,” she added.
According to Chumba, the failure to address the issue effectively is emboldening offenders and worsening the plight of children with disabilities, who are already marginalized by poverty, stigma, and lack of access to essential services like healthcare, education, and inclusive infrastructure.
“We need decisive action now. The rights of all children, especially those with special needs, must be fully protected,” Chumba urged.
Chumba called on the government, law enforcement, and communities to act swiftly and decisively to bring perpetrators to justice and prevent further abuse.
Recent reports have also flagged a rise in online exploitation targeting children with intellectual disabilities, exposing significant gaps in Kenya’s legal protections and community awareness.
By KIMUTAI LANGAT
You can also follow our social media pages on Twitter: Education News KE and Facebook: Education News Newspaper for timely updates.
>>> Click here to stay up-to-date with trending regional stories
>>> Click here to read more informed opinions on the country’s education landscape
