Bomet County Commissioner Carolyne Nzwili has raised the alarm over the rising number of defilement cases in the county.
Nzwili called for concerted efforts to protect children and curb sexual and gender-based violence (GBV).
She said at least 11 rape cases had been reported in the past three months, a trend she described as worrying.
Speaking in Siongiroi, the commissioner also expressed concern over the rising number of murder cases, warning that the situation had reached alarming levels.
“Cases of defilement have been on the rise here. We have 11 reported cases in the past three months. This is so worrying,” said Nzwili.
Commissioner faults liquor licensing
She further faulted the county government over what she termed the indiscriminate issuance of liquor licences, linking excessive alcohol consumption to an increase in crime.
“As NGAO, we are doing what we can to stop illicit brews. However, the county government has been giving out licences irresponsibly, and this is making our work very difficult,” added Nzwili.
Defilement cases have reportedly been on the rise in Bomet County, with Chepalungu and Konoin sub-counties identified as areas of concern.
Cases of female genital mutilation (FGM) have also reportedly increased, raising fears that more girls could drop out of school due to the harmful practice.
Judiciary calls for concerted action
The Judiciary has, meanwhile, called for concerted efforts among stakeholders to end gender-based violence, even as courts continue to impose lengthy prison sentences on perpetrators in a bid to deter such offences.
“Cases of defilement are becoming a matter of concern here in Bomet. Despite handing the culprits tough penalties, the vice has been going on. Decisive action now needs to be taken to address the problem,” said a Judiciary representative in Sotik.
The latest concerns have renewed calls for stronger community awareness, improved reporting of abuse and coordinated action by security agencies, local administrators, schools and the courts to protect vulnerable members of the community.
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