Parents in Kajiado County have been urged to closely monitor their children during the school holidays amid concerns over cases of defilement and child abuse.
Speaking on Tuesday during Mashujaa Day celebrations at Oloosirkon Primary School in Tuala, Oloosirkon Ward, Isinya Sub-County, Deputy County Commissioner Reuben Ratemo called on parents and guardians to take greater responsibility for the safety and wellbeing of their children, particularly during the long school holiday.
Ratemo’s remarks followed concerns raised by residents over defilement cases, with information shared by the Kenya Prisons Service indicating that a significant number of convicted inmates in the country’s prisons had been sentenced for defilement-related offences.
The issue was also highlighted in relation to Kitengela Maximum Prison, where defilement cases were cited as a major concern.
The deputy county commissioner urged parents to remain vigilant and work closely with local administrators and other community members to protect children from abuse and exploitation.
He also called on bar owners in Kajiado East constituency to adhere to designated operating hours and consider reducing their operating activities during the examination period to minimise disruptions and give candidates an opportunity to concentrate on their studies.
Ratemo further warned that the local administration would intensify the fight against illicit alcohol, directing area chiefs to step up operations aimed at eliminating illegal brews within the sub-county.
He said illicit alcohol continued to negatively affect young people and families, calling for stronger cooperation between administrators and residents to address the problem.
Ratemo was accompanied by Kajiado East Sub-County Administrator Susan Simayo, who emphasised the importance of safeguarding children, describing them as future leaders who needed guidance, care and support from parents and the wider community.
Simayo said promoting children’s safety was a shared responsibility that required the involvement of everyone in the community.
She also commended local educational institutions for their performance in examinations, noting that schools in the area had the potential to produce top-performing students.
At the same time, residents challenged boda boda operators to take an active role in protecting children against abuse and exploitation, urging them to work with parents and local authorities to ensure the safety of minors.
The residents said a coordinated effort involving parents, school administrators, local leaders and transport operators was necessary to create a safe environment for children during school holidays and throughout the year.
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