Shock and concern have gripped Khwisero Sub-county, Kakamega County, after it emerged that 31 girls sitting for their national examinations are pregnant.
The revelation was made by Khwisero Sub-county Commissioner Janet Khatambi, who described the situation as alarming and called for urgent community action to protect schoolgirls from sexual exploitation.
Speaking during a public baraza, Khatambi said her office had compiled a list of the affected candidates drawn from different schools across the sub-county.
She noted that her administration had been forced to make special arrangements to ensure the girls complete their exams safely.
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“We have identified 31 pregnant candidates who need close monitoring during this examination period. I have organized for a standby vehicle to respond in case any of them goes into labour while in the examination room,” Khatambi said.
The Sub-county Commissioner revealed that a joint investigation involving the police and local administration has been launched to trace and arrest the individuals responsible for impregnating the learners.
“We are going after those who violated these girls. They must face justice,” she added, warning that her office will not tolerate acts that rob young girls of their future.
The education stakeholders and parents have expressed disappointment, saying the number of pregnant candidates reflects a deeper social crisis in the community.
They urged local leaders, teachers, and parents to strengthen mentorship and awareness campaigns to curb the vice.
The incident has renewed calls for stricter enforcement of child protection laws and comprehensive sex education in schools, as cases of teenage pregnancy continue to derail girls’ education across many parts of the country.
By our reporter
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