- Stakeholders in Nandi have raised concern over teenage pregnancies reportedly affecting girls from Grade Six.
- Nandi East, Nandi Central and Nandi South are cited among the most affected areas.
- Parents, schools and community leaders have been urged to strengthen measures protecting school-going girls.
Stakeholders in Nandi County have raised alarm over the increasing cases of teenage pregnancy, with the situation reportedly affecting girls from as early as Grade Six through senior school.
The situation is said to be particularly serious in Nandi East, Nandi Central and Nandi South, where stakeholders are calling for urgent intervention to protect school-going girls from early pregnancy and its associated consequences.
Stakeholders have attributed the rising cases to several factors, including poor parental upbringing, increased alcohol consumption and the influence of boda boda riders. They say some young girls are increasingly exposed to environments and relationships that put them at risk of early sexual activity and pregnancy.
Poor parental guidance has also emerged as a major concern, with stakeholders urging parents and guardians to take a more active role in their children’s lives. They have called for stronger communication between parents and children, particularly as young people face increasing social and economic pressures.
The reported increase in alcohol consumption has further raised concern, with stakeholders warning that exposure to alcohol and other risky environments can leave young girls vulnerable to exploitation and other dangers.
The influence of some boda boda riders has also come under scrutiny. Stakeholders have called for greater accountability among transport operators and increased community awareness to ensure that young girls are protected from inappropriate relationships and exploitation.
Schools, communities called to intervene
The consequences of teenage pregnancy can be far-reaching. Girls who become pregnant while still in school may face stigma, interrupted education and limited opportunities for the future. Stakeholders therefore want schools, parents, health workers, government agencies and community leaders to work together in addressing the problem.
They have called for stronger guidance and counselling programmes in schools, improved parental involvement and community-based interventions targeting both children and adults.
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With cases reportedly affecting girls from Grade Six to senior school, stakeholders say the situation requires immediate attention. They believe that protecting young girls must remain a shared responsibility if Nandi County is to reverse the worrying trend and safeguard the future of its children.
By Josephine Rono
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