Grade 7 girl rescued from Early Marriage in Kajiado

A 14-year-old girl has been rescued from an early marriage in Kajiado County as authorities intensify efforts to combat the vice.

County Commissioner Michael Yator said the minor, a Grade Seven pupil at Merrueshi Comprehensive School, reportedly eloped with a casual labourer on December 28, 2025.

She was later traced to the suspect’s rural home in Kitale, where she was rescued by a multi-agency security team.

“The girl has since been placed in a safe facility where she is undergoing counselling,” Yator said. “We are committed to ensuring her safety and well-being as investigations continue.”

Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect, identified as Mark Wafula, who escaped arrest during the operation. His mother and brother were apprehended for allegedly harbouring a minor, as security teams from both Kajiado and Kitale pursue him.

Commissioner Yator decried what he described as rising cases of teenage pregnancies and early marriages in the county, urging parents to take greater responsibility in safeguarding their children.

“I want to urge parents to closely take care of their children, both boys and girls. You should be aware of where they are at all times,” he said.

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He called on the community to abandon retrogressive cultural practices such as female genital mutilation (FGM), noting that the practice significantly contributes to early marriages and teenage pregnancies.

“FGM is one of the major factors driving early marriages and teenage pregnancies in this county,” Yator added.

The County Commissioner further urged parents to discourage their children from engaging in early sexual activities, revealing that nearly half of the births reported at Mashuuru Hospital involve teenage mothers.

He encouraged members of the public to report cases of FGM, early marriages, teenage pregnancies and gender-based violence to National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and other security agencies within their localities.

“We must work together as a community. I urge NGAO officers to intensify civic education during public barazas to sensitise our people against these vices. Concerted efforts are required if we are to win this fight,” Yator said.

By Kimutai Langat